E. W. (Bill) Hassman, 78, passed away Sunday June 4, 2017 at Mt. View Regional Medical Center in Las Cruces.

Bill Hassman was born on November 18, 1938 In Luna County, New Mexico. His mother was Loretta Julia McCarthy. His father was Chester Frederick Hassman. His brothers were Sonny and Everett. His sisters were Elisabeth Ackerman, Judith Rodriquez, and Rose Smith. They all preceded Bill in death.

He voluntarily joined the United States Army in 1958 and served in numerous places during the Cold War and up to the beginning of the Vietnam War. He was most proud to be in the 2nd Armored Division, a .50 caliber machine gunner on a tank, and was Direct Support for the 1st Calvary.

He married Julie Audrienne Hartigan on May 27, 1959. They have two children. A son, Eric William born in Landstuhl, Germany, his wife Julie Jones. Their children Eric Jr. (Macy), Brandi, and Tiffany. A daughter, Jada Audrienne born in El Paso, Texas. Her husband is Robert O. Witmer, and their children are Jonah and Micah. He is survived by his wife Julie of fifty-eight years, their children, and grandchildren, several nephews and nieces.

He was part owner in a family business for over thirty years, Southwest Urethane, Inc. He worked throughout the state of New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, Colorado, and even into Mexico. He was a member of First Christian Church and served on the Board until moving to Las Cruces, NM in 2003. He was a faithful servant of the Lord.

His hobbies were race car driving, wood carving, gun collecting, and theater. He could build or fix anything. One of the last conversations he and his, Julie, had was that they had a wonderful and amazing life together. His presence will be missed, but the memories will live on in the hearts of all who loved and knew him.

A memorial service will be Friday June 16, 2017 at 10:30 in the morning at the First Christian Church in Deming with Rev. Darrell L. Witmer and Rev. Rob Wilson officiating. Concluding services and inurnment with honors will follow at Mt. View Cemetery.