Eunice Jean Early, a woman of remarkable talent, unwavering dedication, and vibrant spirit, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at Boutwells Landing in Oak Park Heights, Minnesota, just a few days before her 94th birthday. Born on May 31, 1931, in West Salem, Oregon, Eunice lived a life rich in purpose and passion.
Eunice was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, deeply cherished by her family. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Gene Early; her parents, Lloyd and Florence Miller; and her brother, Wesley Miller. Her legacy lives on through her four children, Miriam (Scott), Karen, Jonathan (Cordelia) and Susan (Dave). Eunice was also blessed with eight grandchildren, Maari (Andy), Hans (Liz), Casey (Melinda), Anthony (Ruby), Clara, Anna, Lindsey (John) and Ryan (Natalie); and seven great-grandchildren, Talula, Ella, Annika, Eisen, Camille, Zadie and Hazel; and five nieces and nephews, Linda, Mark, Cindy, Neil and Kristi.
A gifted vocalist and musician, Eunice shared her many talents generously, enriching the lives of many. She was a sought-after vocalist for life celebrations and was often delivering singing “Euniegrams”. Eunice’s love for the outdoors and advocacy for a healthy lifestyle was evident; she applied and shared what she learned reading monthly wellness newsletters, she enjoyed gardening, swimming, biking, golfing, and cross-country skiing, and became an accomplished marathon runner at 50.
Eunice attended Eugene, Oregon High School, where she met her husband-to-be, Gene. She was a member of the National Honor Society and active in many clubs and musical groups. After graduating from high school in 1949, she attended the University of Oregon and worked as the secretary for the dean of the School of Architecture. Eunice and Gene were married on Dec. 1, 1951, and in 1953, they moved to Frederic, Wisconsin, where they raised four children and successfully ran the Early Oil Company for over 40 years. Eunice became a cherished and active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, where she lent her voice to the choir and passionately directed youth choirs. Eunice was deeply involved in community service, always willing to contribute her time and energy. In 1999, Eunice and Gene were honored as Frederic Citizens of the Year. In 2003, they built a home on Dunham Lake, where the family often gathered for fun and celebrations. In 2009 Gene passed away and in 2015 Eunice moved to Boutwells Landing where she could be closer to her children. She suffered a stroke in 2019 and with the strength of her spirit regained her ability to share joy through music and offer a smile to lighten the days of others.
Eunice’s warmth, energy, and commitment to both her family and community will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Many will remember her as “The Singing Grandma” as well as heed her advice to “keep a song in your heart, a smile on your face and make the world a better place”.
Eunice’s family is grateful for the care and love she received from the staff at Boutwells Landing.
A Celebration of Life will be held June 28, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church at 100 Linden St. W., Frederic, WI. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a 2:00 p.m. service and a gathering for refreshments and reminiscing.
