Mr. Eugene D. McEathron “Gene” age 66 died Wednesday March 24, 2010 at Mission Hospital in Asheville NC following a sudden illness. Born in Ogdensburg, NY on August 13, 1943 he was the son of the late Ernest McEathron. Mr. McEathron served in the US Navy before attending Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY where he received a degree in engineering. He worked as a mechanical engineer for many years at PPG in Shelby, NC before retiring in 2002 as head of the research and development department. Mr. McEathron was an avid tinkerer and inventor and is responsible for numerous patents. He enjoyed working in his shop, helping family and friends with home projects, camping on the ocean shore, making and drinking his own wine, and spending quality time with his wife and many family members. He is survived by his wife Rose McEathron; his mother Ella Hazelton Williams, two sons- Daniel McEathron & wife Jody; Jason Johns; three daughters – Ellen Winchell & husband David, Denise Gould & husband William, Melissa Auvil & husband Mark; seven brothers – Ernest McEathron Jr & wife Linda, Richard McEathron & wife Cindy, Ray McEathron, Daniel Williams & wife Connie , Michael Williams & wife Debbie, Edward Williams & wife Debbie, Steve Williams & wife Ronda; five sisters- Ruth Mead & husband Ron, Linda Manchester & husband Paul, Norma Frankie & husband John, Nora Jean Love & husband Herbert, Rita Clarke & husband Tom. Seven grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews also survive. In addition to his father he was also preceded in death by one brother – Theodore Williams A celebration of life will be held 3 PM Saturday March 27, 2010 at Crowe’s Mortuary with visitation one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Rutherford County Animal Shelter 578 Laurel Hill Drive, Rutherfordton NC 28139.