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Obituary for HIXENBAUGH


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Sunday July 17, 2011

WALDO (BUD) Passed away on July 10, 2011 at age 87 after a short illness. Bud, a native New Mexican, was born on January 5, 1924 in the Northern New Mexico town of Watrous. Bud, the son of early New Mexico pioneers, Abena and Frank Hixenbaugh, graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1942. He joined the Coast Guard in 1943 and served honorably in World Ward II in both the Pacific and European War Theaters. He saw duty from the Aleutian Islands to North Africa, Okinawa and the occupation of Japan. Bud next worked for many years at the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a diesel mechanic and retired in the mid 1980's. Bud spent his retirement years expertly restoring over 20 antique and classic automobiles at his large garage. His friends during those years remarked on his generosity in sharing his equipment, time, and expertise, as well as his sense of humor, humble demeanor and sharp wit. Bud was preceded in death by his son, Russell. Surviving family includes his wife, Eveline; three sons and their families, Jerry and Gayle, Wayne and Alison, Ray and Gerrie; plus many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as friends and relatives. Bud will be missed by all.