Living in Corbett since birth, you could say that Eric Eaton is "home grown." Eric's folks moved to Corbett in the early 70's after his dad returned from Vietnam. A year later Eric was born and later, brother Mark and sister Katie. The Eaton's built their own home on Center Street in Corbett. Many are not even familiar with this road off of the Scenic Hwy.! They raised red worms, milk cows, goats, pigs and a pony. They even had an enormous wind tower with seven ft. long blades! Eric says his parents could be described as "hippies" and very "earth loving" at a time when Corbett was much more rural than it is today. Eric says growing up in Corbett was like having one big family, as everyone accepted and depended on one another for everything. Including sports at school- Eric excelled in football and played for the Oregon All-Stars in Great Britain. He represented Corbett High and even spoke personally with the Duke and Duchess of York! Eric attended class at Springdale School, Corbett Grade that burned down and the current Corbett Middle and High School. Eric's folks eventually split, and Eric's mom died when was a Junior in high school. Eric went on to MHCC and got a degree in Entrepreneurship/Small Business Ownership. Eric had always had a passion for construction and was following in the path of his ancestors who were Mayflower carpenters, coming to America in 1620! Eric held several supervisory roles in commercial construction, being the main supervisor of the construction of the Gresham Winco at age 24. When the 9/11 tragedy hit, it was a blow to the construction industry. Eric then started his own business, Eaton Construction, and there has been no looking back. This year he will celebrate his 10 year anniversary with his company. He also has another anniversary to celebrate. Eric married April in 1998, having met her in first grade in Corbett. They now have two children and are actively involved with the community that they were both raised in.
