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William (Bill) Alfred Saxton, age 79, passed away on January 1, 2004, due to complications of Alzheimers Disease. Bill was born January 10, 1924 in Rapid City, South Dakota to Willie and Elizabeth (Whitney) Saxton who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 39 years, Pauline Mary (Sandoval) Saxton; and by his brother, Robert Saxton. Bill graduated from high school in McNary, Arizona and at age 18 he joined the United States Marine Corps. He enlisted in Phoenix, Arizona on July 1, 1942 and was sent to Camp Pendleton, California for basic training where he qualified as a Rifle Marksman, Light-truck driver and automotive mechanic. After boot camp, Bill was assigned to the 4th Marine Division, Asiatic Pacific Area with Fleet Marine Force. He saw combat at Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Island and Saipan, Marianas Islands. Like most of the "Greatest Generation", he was very proud of his service to his country but spoke very little about it. Upon his Honorable discharge in San Pedro, California on April 21, 1947 he came to Albuquerque to visit family. This is where he met, fell in love with and married Pauline. They had three children who survive them, Nancy Ann Hulett (husband, Robert, Sr.) of Taylorsville, Utah; Renee Louise Pagan (husband, Richard) of Albuquerque and Ronald Alan Saxton (wife, Lorraine) also of Albuquerque. Other survivors include seven grandchildren, Robert Hulett Jr., Morris Hulett, Gwen Barrett, Jonathan Saxton, Jared Hamblin, Jason Pagan, and Brian Pagan; and five great-grandchildren, Jordan Hulett, Eian Barrett, Aubrey Barrett, Gabrielle Pagan and Alexander Pagan. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. Bill was an avid hunter and was well known for his abilities as a gunsmith and over-all fix it man. He was a strong honest and generous man who will be missed on this earth and mourned by his family and friends. Cremation has taken place, private family services to be held at a later time. Those who wish to honor Bill's life are requested to make a donation to their favorite charity/cause. TAPS Day is gone, gone the sun From the lakes, from the hills from the skies All is well, safely rest God is nigh. Semper Fi, Dad, Semper Fi
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