Gary L. Paxton

Gary L. Paxton  Gary Lee Paxton, 58, died at home in Salt lake City on July 16, 2002, of kidney cancer. Gary was born December 23, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Calvin Nilson Paxton and June Leon Meyers Paxton. He graduated from Irvin High School in El Paso, Texas, in 1962 and matriculated at the University of Utah that year. Member of Sigma Chi and recipient of the Grand Consul's Citation in 1994 for "great service to the Fraternity." He served in the North British Mission for the L.D.S. Church from 1965-67. Married Barbara K. Rees on August 12, 1968, in the Salt Lake Temple. Graduated from the U of U with B.S. degree in 1968 and J.D. degree in 1971. He was commissioned a second lieutenant at Fort Lewis, Washington, in 1968, and honorably discharged as a captain, field artillery, U.S. Army Reserve in 1976. Received Salt Lake Association of Community Councils' 1994 Good Neighbor Award for his part in efforts resulting in the expansion of Sunnyside Park. Practiced law in Salt Lake City for 29 years. Gary leaves a strong legacy of patriotism, appreciation for the outdoors and respect for his fellow men. Survived by wife, Barbara; mother, June; brother, Douglas; and by three daughters, sons-in-law and seven grandchildren: Michelle and Jon Roderick (Matthew, Nathan, and Emily); Patricia and James Christensen (Jayne, Scott, and Kate); and Susanne and Allan Flandro (Marley). Preceded in death by father and grandparents. A memorial service will be held in the Orangerie at Red Butte Garden, 300 Wakara Way on Saturday, July 20, 2002, commencing at 11:00 a.m. Friends may greet the family one hour prior to and following the service. No flowers please. Instead, Gary requested donations to the Cancer Wellness House, 59 South 1100 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84102. The family thanks healthcare professionals at LDS Hospital Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic, the staff on East 8, and hospice and home health caregivers.