Rex Leon Eastwood

April 26, 1961 — July 24, 2026

Vassar, Kansas

Rex Leon Eastwood, age 65, of Vassar, Kansas, passed away on July 24, 2026.

Rex was born on April 26, 1961, to Albert Eastwood and Shirley (Cornett) Eastwood. He graduated from Prairie View High School in 1979 before attending Parsons College, where he lettered in wrestling.

In the Fall of 1985, Rex joined the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union and dedicated his career to the trade, working for Foley and McCarthy Companies until his retirement in 2025. Beyond his profession, Rex was a knowledgeable and passionate farmer who enjoyed working the land and sharing his wealth of agricultural knowledge with others.

An avid outdoorsman, Rex had a deep love for adventure. He traveled to Canada, Newfoundland, and many other destinations on memorable elk and bear hunting trips and enjoyed countless hours fishing. Through these adventures, he formed lifelong friendships and created memories that he cherished.

On May 8, 2010, Rex married the love of his life, Gail, at Fontana Christian Church. He was previously married to Tammy Cook.

After retiring in 2025, Rex and his beloved wife, Gail, began a wonderful new chapter together at Lake Pomona, where they enjoyed the peaceful life they had worked so hard to build.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Eastwood and Shirley Wright, and his brother, Ron Eastwood.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Gail Eastwood; his nephew, Micah Crider of the home; his brother, Andy Eastwood of Fontana; his nieces, Kylie, Kimmie, Julie, and Jennifer; his nephew, A.J.; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends.

Rex will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the outdoors, his generous heart, and the friendships he cultivated throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation 10–11 a.m. Saturday August 1, 2026, followed by Service 11 a.m. all at the Eddy Birchard Funeral Home. Cremation will follow.

(Published in the Linn County Journal on July 27, 2026