DETECTIVE HARRY O. H.O." EASTUS

BADGES 654 & 569 ID 1282

SDPD 04/12/1973 - 07/30/2005

11/18/1949 - 08/30/2025

THE THIN BLUE LINE

Harry “H.O.” Eastus passed away peacefully at his San Diego home on August 30, 2025 at the age of 75.

H.O. was born at Johnson Army Base in Irumagawa, Japan and raised in Texas. He joined the U.S. Navy upon completion of High School and served aboard ships during the Vietnam War. After his four (4) year stint, H.O. joined the San Diego Police Department in April of 1973.

During his 32+ year career with the SDPD, H.O. worked as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and Detective in several assignments throughout the city, including Central, Southeast, Western, and Backgrounds. However, he is undoubtedly best known for the time he spent leading the Police Officers Association. H.O. was hired as the POA’s General Manager and later joined the Board, Serving as President from 1990-1996.  

Quality leaders, whether formal or informal, strive to leave the organizations they lead better than they found it – and H.O. accomplished that goal. During his time as POA President, H.O. lead Association Directors through several tough contract negotiations and the purchase of the current POA building. But H.O. was most proud of his role in changing the “Member’s Benefits” account to the “Widows and Orphans Fund,” which included moving it to a 501(c) (3) status. These changes allowed donations to the fund to be a tax write-off for donors and to ensure the most money would be available for those in need. 

H.O. was an avid competitive golfer and was well known for his sharp wit and sense of humor. He had been battling cancer for several years. In true Texan style, H.O. didn’t shy away from that fight and faced the end as he had lived his life; on his own terms and was funny and feisty to the end.

H.O. was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years. He is survived by his daughter, son-in-law, two (2) grandchildren, one (1) grandchild and a younger brother. 

 H.O. will be laid to rest next to his wife at USMCAS Miramar at an open service.  

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