Bill R. Burton, 89, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

      Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Samaritan’s Purse.

      Bill lived his life with a clear understanding of what mattered most. God came first, family came second, and everything else fell into place from there. He didn't simply speak about these priorities; he lived them. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he was formerly an active member of Moline Gospel Temple for more than 40 years.

      Born January 28, 1937, in Rock Island, Illinois, to John and Leatha Burton, Bill graduated from United Township High School in 1954.

      On September 8, 1954, at just 17 years old, Bill married the love of his life, Patricia "Pat" Stout. What began as young love grew into a beautiful marriage spanning nearly 70 years. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, devotion, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to family. Pat preceded him in death on July 17, 2024.

      Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1957 aboard the USS Lexington (CVA-16) where he had the honor of being part of the crew during its maiden voyage. He began his career at John Deere Harvester Works in 1957 as a spot welder, working his way through numerous leadership positions before retiring in 1992 as Manager of Parts Product and Planning. A firm believer in education and hard work, he earned his bachelor's degree from Marycrest College in 1975 and his MBA from St. Ambrose University in 1992. He also devoted time to Junior Achievement, encouraging the next generation.

      His professional accomplishments were many, but if asked what he was most proud of, it was his family.

      Together, Bill and Pat raised four children and built a family that would grow to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When their children were young, they enjoyed annual camping trips with family and close friends, beginning a tradition of making memories together that would continue for generations.

      Bill loved to travel, and he and Pat enjoyed numerous cruises together. But perhaps their greatest adventures were the annual summer trips they took with their grandchildren. From Washington, D.C., and Niagara Falls to Disney World, Destin, Yellowstone, and Jackson Hole, they gave their grandchildren the opportunity to see the world and create memories that will last a lifetime. Those trips were never simply about the destinations, but about the time spent together and the love that made each journey special.

      Those who knew Bill knew he believed in doing things the right way. A planner through and through, he valued preparation, responsibility, and following through on his word. He believed that “early is on time, and on time is late.” He taught his family to work hard, take pride in everything they did, and above all, put God first and trust in Him.

      Bill also enjoyed golfing, bicycling, spending time at the family cabin near Maquoketa, and gathering with family and friends. In reflecting on his own accomplishments, he credited Pat's love and support, recognizing that none of it would have been possible without her. His greatest fulfillment was always found in the life and family they built together.

      Bill leaves behind his daughters, Diana (Donavon) Wood of Moline and Roberta (Dennis) Williams of Clinton, Iowa; his son, William (Teresa) Burton of Peachtree City, Georgia; his son-in-law, Daniel McElhiney of Bettendorf, Iowa; his grandchildren, Jason, Joseph, Stephen, Leonna, Ryan, Christopher, Sarah, and Blake; and also Mackenzie & Rebecca; and 18 great-grandchildren.

      He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat; his daughter, Victoria McElhiney; and his brother, Jack Burton.

      While his passing leaves an immeasurable void, there is comfort in knowing Bill has been reunited with Pat and has finished his earthly journey in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served. Well done, good and faithful servant.