William Harrison Haggerton “Skeeter”, 90, of Amarillo, passed away on Saturday, December 4, 2021.
Skeeter was born May 17, 1931 in Sweetwater, TX to Charles and Myrtie Haggerton. He graduated from Amarillo High in the Class of 1948 and was always quick to remind people that it was “the old Amarillo High.” While at Amarillo High, he boxed with the Golden Gloves and won titles for his weight class.
Skeeter is survived by his wife, Virginia; three children, Todd Haggerton (Cristal) of Sugarland, TX, Patricia Eichhorn (Carey) of Fresno, CA, and Cheryl Strawn (Dudley) of Southhaven, MS; a goddaughter, Jenny Hunger (Willy) of Dos Palos, CA; and six grandchildren.
Skeeter was a Veteran of the US Navy, serving in the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1954. He attended Fresno State University graduating in 1958 with a degree in Criminology and was part of the Los Angeles Police Department for a short while. He then pursued jobs in Aviation Insurance Investigation for several years. At retirement, Skeeter had been a Snap On Tool Dealer for over a decade.
Skeeter was a Masonic member for over 60 years. He was a member of the Palo Duro Masonic Lodge and Khiva Shrine in Amarillo, TX.
Skeeter had a love for flying and received his private pilot license in the mid 1960’s. He had read a book titled “The Sea of Cortez” by Ray Cannon which enticed him to fly into remote dirt airstrips and the beaches of Baja California Sur to satisfy his love of fishing. The first trip ignited a love of a small fishing village on the Sea of Cortez called Loreto in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Many years were spent in this village and on the surrounding sea. Pushing the boat off from the beachfront at the house, catching bait, a beer at sunrise and a good catch of fish always made for a good day. He and Virginia spent many hours together hauling rock, sand, and supplies to build their authentic Mexican styled palapa and rock house. It was a labor of love and appreciation for the simple Mexicana lifestyle that Loreto offered.
Skeeter lived and experienced many different places in life. He retired at the age of 53, possibly in pursuit of the last best fishing spot, whether it was floating the rivers in Montana, catching salmon in Washington State, or headed to the Casa called “Rancho Sonrisa” in Loreto to spend time. In 2004, Texas was calling him back....and so there was one more move to where he began life.
He always asked for his “three discounts:” senior citizen, Korean Veteran, and his Amarillo High discount. Frank Sinatra’s song, “I Did It My Way” sums up his life. His dog, Duke, was a cherished companion as well as his special kitty, Fluffers.
At his request, there will be no services. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children Development - Suite 523, 815 Market Street, Galveston, TX 77539, www.shrinerschildrens.org.