Eldon Boyd Foster

Longtime resident and friend to all, Eldon Boyd Foster peacefully passed away at his home on Saturday, November 23, 2024, surrounded by his family. His strong, firm handshake and warm welcoming mustached smile will be deeply missed. Eldon was born on May 29, 1940, in Long Beach, California, to Eunice (Fager) and Homer Foster. In 1947, his family moved to Grants Pass to be closer to relatives. Growing up in rural Southern Oregon, Eldon honed his "MacGyver-style" fix-it skills and developed an encouraging heart—traits that defined his life.

Eldon faithfully served at the Church of the Brethren, where his grandfather was the pastor. Over the years, he worked in the local mint fields on Riverbanks Road, repaired appliances at a hardware store, and even tried his hand at retail sales at a men’s clothing shop. He graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1958.

Although not a war veteran like many of his peers, Eldon’s love for life, liberty, and country was steadfast. He found a way to contribute by working in Maryland for several years, building and repairing barracks and training facilities for the military. Upon returning to Grants Pass, Eldon met the love of his life, Sandra Jeanne Lee. On September 2, 1966, they were married at the First Baptist Church and shared 58 years of adventures and devoted marriage.

Eldon was known for his generosity and knack for helping others. He dedicated 30 years to the Grants Pass Fire Department, retiring as a beloved firefighter. Along the way, Eldon mastered the craft of locksmithing and established "The Key Man," the valley's only locksmith company for decades—another avenue for him to serve the community.

A longtime member of First Baptist Church (now River Valley Church), Eldon contributed in countless ways. He sang in the choir, served as an elder, changed lightbulbs, drove buses for youth mission trips, and helped wherever he could lend a hand.

Eldon loved exploring the woods, tinkering, and assisting others. His passion for hot air balloons made him the ideal crew chief for the WWJD and Arky balloons, roles he cherished for many years.

In 2010, a life-changing accident left Eldon blind, but his determination and faith never wavered. After his recovery, he walked daily to the local Human Bean for his extra-hot chai latte, attended Bible studies, and joined the local chapter for the blind. Eldon inspired everyone he met with his resilience, kindness, and his mantra: “Always do your best.”

Eldon is survived by his wife, Sandra (Lee) Foster; his son, Marlin Brett Foster, and daughter-in-law, Joanna; nine grandchildren: Thomas, Cosette, Aspen, Riley, Corban, Kadin, Eli, Haven, and Ellie; and three great-grandchildren: Brooklynn, Owen, and Emelia. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Hammond. Eldon was preceded in death by his parents, Eunice Kathryn and Homer Loyal Foster, and his brother, Marlin Royce Foster.

Eldon will be remembered as a hero, helper, encourager, and protector, and he will be deeply missed. The family will hold a private ceremony, with plans for a public celebration in the future—after a period of grief and healing—when we can celebrate his life to the fullest, just as Eldon, Dad, and Grampa would have wanted. Please send condolences, thoughts, favorite photos, and happy memories to the family at ELDON@RIGSANDRIDES.NET or 1600 NE 7th Grants Pass Oregon 97526.

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