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BAXTER -- SAMUEL HOUSTON A native of New Mexico, took his final skyward journey on October 12, 2011. Sam was a veteran balloon pilot, instructor, mentor, and the founder of "The Adams Family" balloonists. Sam was a man of vision, deep and thoughtful giving and absolutely passionate about all that he loved! His work at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta as Field Manager spanned 14 years. Balloon Fiesta was a passion that he shared with his field crew, the volunteers and the AIBF employees who create this spectacular event each year. He was the recipient of the AAAA Sid Cutter Award and was inducted into the AIBF Hall of Fame. He was truly the epitome of a "life well lived" and was known as "quite the Guy"! He knew no bounds and the legacy he leaves is strong and inclusively magnanimous. Sam is survived by his loving wife Shannon; daughters Caitlan and Samantha; sisters Robbin Busick and Marj Baxter of Albuquerque; Anita Moya and husband Cass and brother Bob Baxter of Caballo, NM; his "chosen sister" Janie Jordan; many loving nieces and nephews as well as supportive friends. Please join us at sunrise for Flying and a Celebration of Sam's life on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Field with a tailgate afterwards and "circle the wagons" as we say goodbye and Godspeed to "Papa Adams". In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Mexico Cancer Center (NMCC) Foundation, 4901 Lang Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109, in Sam's name.
        Published on: Sat October 15, 2011