William Mark Baxter

He was born April 25, 1950 in Bloomington to Dr. Raymond E. and Eleanor Baxter. On November 16, he married Jill Bower, his companion for the last three years.

He is survived by his wife, brother Ray Baxter of Bloomington, sisters Robin Aldridge of Naperville IL, Terri Whirrett of Columbia, SC. and several nieces, a nephew and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bill graduated from Bloomington High School in 1968. In 1969, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and spent 13 months in Vietnam. He was discharged in 1970 with the rank of E-4. Following his military service, he attended Illinois Wesleyan University and Illinois State University. In 1974, he earned certification as a respiratory therapist from Victory Memorial Hospital, Waukegan. He also served three years as ranger at Comlara State Park.

In 1979, wanderlust overtook Bill and he left Bloomington and headed up to the Pacific Northwest. He eventually settled in Olympia, WA and went to work as an inhalation therapist at St. Peters Hospital where he remained for 22 years. It was also in Olympia where he bought the first of four beautiful motor sailboats which he lived aboard for almost 30 years, and always with his beloved canine partners by his side. Sailing the length and breadth of Pudget Sound was his greatest joy.

After retiring from the hospital, Bill embarked on a series of rather unique adventures including river-rafting guide, deep sea diving, mountain climbing and working a salmon run in Alaska. When his health began to fail, he returned home in 2013 and settled in Normal. Bill loved the outdoors, wildlife and the sea. He was a warm, friendly guy who loved his family deeply and they loved him. He will be greatly missed.

In accordance with Bill’s wishes, the rite of cremation has been accorded and there will be no services. East Lawn Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. The family also extends sincere thanks to the Advocate-Bromen hospice team who cared for Bill through his final days.

Memorial contributions may be made to Good as Gold (Golden Retriever Rescue), 518 S Rt. 31, Ste. 178, McHenry IL 60050