Earl Horton, Jr., 54, died peacefully at home on Dec. 11, 2012, with his family by his side. Earl was diagnosed with stage IV esophogeal cancer in 2009, but gave that beast a run for its money, beating it back, not once but twice even after it had spread to his brain. Earl's body gave out way before his spirit.
Earl was born on Oct. 24, 1958, in Winnemucca, where he spent his childhood and graduated from high school. He attended the University of Nevada, Reno graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 1991 and a Master's in Social Work in 1994. During his college years and even after, Earl was very involved in the ATO fraternity, and established meaningful and long-lasting friendships with his fraternity brothers.
Earl worked for Washoe County Juvenile Services for 30 years in a variety of capacities, from work crew to detention to a probation officer. He influenced and made a difference to many youth and families. Earl enjoyed camping, fishing and a cold beer. He was a loud and spirited fan of the Nevada Wolf Pack, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Minnesota Vikings.
Earl's biggest joys and proudest accomplishments were his children, Morgan Horton (age 19), Katie Horton (age 17) and Earl Horton, III, "Peanut" (age 3) who will carry on his legacy. He is also survived by his proud father, Earl Horton Sr., his beloved sister, Joan Horton, and his three nephews, Jeffrey Horton, Joseph Horton and Julius Horton. He will be forever cherished and missed by his wife Sandy Tedsen Hellman-Horton as well as his stepchildren, Keegan Hellman (17), Luke Hellman (16), Chase Hellman (14), Gage Hellman (13), T.J. Hellman (12), Seth Hellman (12) and Ty Hellman (12). Additionally, he is survived by his aunts Margaret Horton-Davis and Barbara Mills, numerous cousins, and his in-law families, the Scrivens and the Tedsens. He was preceded in death by his uncle Richard Horton, his cousin John Harris and his mother Hilda George.
As per Earl's wishes, there will be no formal services. There will be an informal gathering of family and friends at his home on Saturday, Dec. 15, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to enjoy drinks and food, and share memories and stories.
In lieu of flowers, Earl's ATO brothers have set up an account to assist the family at Wells Fargo. The Earl Horton Donation Fund, C/O Wells Fargo Bank, 1200 Disc Drive, Sparks, Nev., 89436 (Account #1016982298)
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