Patrick Gene Claxton of Sun City, Arizona entered into rest on December 1, 2016, at the age of 83. Pat was born into life on September 21, 1933, in Decatur, Illinois. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, and travel.

Pat a long time resident of Auburn, attended The First United Methodist Church along with his wife Frances and their children.

Pat spent 15 years in the Airforce as a pilot, and instructor. He then went to work for the FAA retiring from the Auburn Air Traffic Control Center after more than 35 years of combined service.

Pat never met a stranger. He told amazing stories about his time in the service. He was the perfect husband and father.

Pat is survived by his wife Frances of AZ; brother and sister-in-law, Melvin and Annalisa Claxton of FL; Brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Diane Claxton of OR; sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Ted Heikell of WA; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Jay Rogerson of WA; son and daughter-in-law, Walter and Ida Cowart of WA; daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Bob Ilosvay of AZ; daughter, Kathy Norbeck of WA; daughter, Denise Cowart of AZ; son and daughter-in-law, William and Shelia Cowart of WA; 11 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Pat’s interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, January 23, 2017.

Contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.