Fred O. Saxton

In Loving Memory of Fred O. Saxton (November 14, 1939 - September 16, 2023)

Fred O. Saxton, born to Ernest and Beulah Saxton on November 14, 1939, in Hillsdale, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2023, in Coldwater, Michigan. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, love, and cherished memories.

On August 19, 1961, Fred married the love of his life, Mary Jane Kinney, with whom he shared 62 years of enduring love and unwavering support. Together, they built a family rooted in love and compassion.

Fred leaves behind a legacy of love through his two sons and their families: Chad and Michella Saxton of Reed City, Michigan, and their children Krystal (Tony) Peterson (Hart) and Brayden Saxton (Reed City) and Matt and Heidi Saxton of Battle Creek, Michigan, along with their children Logan (Battle Creek), Landon (Indianapolis, IN), and Lauren Saxton (East Lansing).

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Beulah Saxton, and his siblings, Barbara Kreps, Peggy Griffin Lefevre, John Saxton, Ernest Saxton Jr., and Leo Saxton. He also joins his in-laws, Earl and Beulah Kinney, in eternal rest. He is survived by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Fred's journey of lifelong learning began at Hillsdale High School, where he graduated in 1959. He pursued higher education with passion, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Western Michigan University in 1964 and a masters in education from Michigan State University in 1969.

Fred dedicated his professional life to education, starting his career with Homer Community Schools in 1964 as teacher, coach and community school director and retiring as the high school principal in 1996. He briefly left Homer for two years to work with Cassopolis Public Schools but soon returned to his beloved Homer, even taking on the role of a school bus driver after retirement, ensuring the safety and well-being of his students and children of former students.

Beyond his career, Fred had a zest for life and a wide range of interests. He cherished travel, camping, hiking, cast iron cooking, and golf. A passionate supporter of Michigan State Spartan football and basketball, he cheered for his beloved teams with unwavering loyalty. He was also a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Homer and a proud participant in the Homer Lions Club for over 50 years.

During the winter months, Fred and Mary Jane found solace in Zephyrhills, Florida, and for more than five decades, they spent their spring breaks in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Fred O. Saxton's life was a testament to the values of family, education, and community. He will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he has embarked on his final journey, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Fred's memory to the Homer Area Community Foundation in the name of the Saxton Family Scholarship Fund, supporting the pursuit of education that was dear to his heart.

A celebration of Freds life where friends and family will gather to honor the memory of this remarkable man will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Homer, located at 309 S Sophia St, Homer, MI 49245, on Friday, September 22, 2023. Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm, followed by the service at 1 pm, with Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services handling the arrangements.