Eatonville High School2025 Recipients
Four Honored with 2025 Eatonville High School Award of Distinction
The EHS Award of Distinction Committee is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of its prestigious Award of Distinction—an honor that celebrates graduates whose lives and accomplishments exemplify excellence, service, and inspiration. In recognition that Eatonville High School plays a vital role in shaping graduates who go on to make meaningful contributions to society, this award honors those who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, humanitarianism, service, or philanthropy—going well beyond what is typically expected and providing a beacon of inspiration for current and future students. These distinguished individuals serve as powerful role models, positively impacting others through their achievements and setting a high standard for generations to come.
This year’s honorees—Dr. Hugh William “Bill” Butler (Class of 1956), Dr. Gloria Lowe (Class of 1998), Harrison Christian (Class of 1958), and Ronald Gay Curtis (Class of 1968)—have each distinguished themselves through extraordinary contributions to their fields, their communities, and the world around them.
Dr. Hugh William “Bill” Butler, Class of 1956, served his country with distinction in both the U.S. Navy and Army, rising to the rank of Colonel and ultimately becoming Chief of Radiology at Fort Sill. A valedictorian, Naval Academy graduate, and University of Washington-trained physician, Dr. Butler was known not only for his brilliant career but also for his humility, love of learning, and deep commitment to family and community. His life reflected a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the common good.
Dr. Gloria Lowe, Class of 1998, returned to her hometown after completing medical school at the University of Washington to serve as a family physician—continuing the legacy of her father, Dr. Tom Van Eaton. Dr. Lowe is beloved in Eatonville not only for her expertise, but for her warmth, generosity, and quiet service to others. Known for remembering every patient’s story and for showing up wherever help is needed, she is a trusted healer, compassionate neighbor, and strong advocate for the community she calls home.
Harrison Christian, Class of 1958, was a man of unmatched grit, generosity, and entrepreneurial vision. Beginning his career in logging, Harrison later expanded his horizons by building businesses in small towns across the region, creating jobs and strengthening local economies. In the late 1970s, he took his skills overseas to Liberia, West Africa, where he operated a logging company during a time of intense political instability. Working under daily threat of civil unrest, Harrison and his partners navigated a dangerous environment—often armed for their own protection. His courage and determination during this time exemplified his fearless character and unshakable resolve.
A world traveler and self-made success, Harrison returned to the Pacific Northwest and reinvested his earnings into motels, restaurants, and housing in Eatonville, Morton, Ashford, and Packwood. He remained rooted in Eatonville throughout his life, leaving a legacy of opportunity, perseverance, and heartfelt community investment.
Ronald Curtis, Class of 1968, embodied service and sacrifice. A hardworking young man who entered the logging industry to support his family, Ron later enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during the Vietnam War. As a sergeant in the 101st Airborne Division, he gave his life in combat in 1971. Ron is honored not only for his military service, but for the legacy of loyalty, bravery, and integrity he left behind. His memory lives on in the naming of “Curtis Lane” and the dedication of the Ron Curtis Memorial Field.
These four recipients remind us that success can take many forms—through academic excellence, professional achievement, courageous service, and unwavering compassion. They exemplify the very best of what Eatonville High School stands for, and they continue to inspire generations to lead lives of purpose and impact.
We are delighted to honor these remarkable individuals and celebrate the lasting influence of Eatonville’s proud alumni. A formal award ceremony will be held on Tuesday, August 26, at 7:30am in the Eatonville High School Auditorium during the school district’s Staff Welcome Back Day.