Deseret News | Bill Orton dies in accident

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Bill Orton dies in accident

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Laura Wall | 9:37 p.m. April 18, 2009

A terrible loss for Utah. Thoughts and prayers with his family...Jacquelyn, we are here for you.

Brad B | 9:44 p.m. April 18, 2009

My condolances go to Bill Orton family in their time of loss. He was a great a great man and will be missed.

BYU Law Student | 10:03 p.m. April 18, 2009

A great Utahan and an even greater man. He represented what was best about our state. My condolences to the family.

Comments continue below

Dave J | 10:07 p.m. April 18, 2009

I remember Bill Orton as a man of integrity and as an assett to Utah. My condolances go out to his family in this their time of need. He was a strong man, with strong convictions. My only regret is that he didn't defeat Leavitt for governor.

Bill will be missed | 10:08 p.m. April 18, 2009

I loved Bill Orton when he represented Utah. I was one of those Republicans who first voted him in. My condolences and prayers are with his family. God Bless.

Great man | 10:09 p.m. April 18, 2009

Bill was a great man and probably one of the greatest congressmen Utah has had in a long time. He truly votes his conscience. Something I doubt many representatives have today.

Rebecca Cressman | 10:09 p.m. April 18, 2009

I'm so sorry for the Orton family. Life is so fragile. Bill worked hard to be selfless, ethical, and just as a politician and as a public servant. So sorry.

David Bresnahan | 10:22 p.m. April 18, 2009

Bill Orton was a great statesman who served Utah well. I was shocked and very sad to learn of his untimely passing. His family will all be in our prayers.

jdd | 10:24 p.m. April 18, 2009

What a gentleman, what a wonderful individual. I'm so sad for his family. I'm very grateful for his contributions to our state and nation.

Time... | 10:32 p.m. April 18, 2009

I met Bill Orton on two occasions. Both times he took time out of his schedule, once when he was already running incredibly late, to meet with groups of high school kids. I've had politicians in my class who did nothing but jockey for position on issues and try to spin issues. Bill Orton was not like that. He was a kind hearted/do what's best for people human being. He served genuinely with honor and integrity. It was a sad day for Utah when he was defeated, but it is a far sadder day today.

With Sympathy | 10:33 p.m. April 18, 2009

My heart goes out to the Orton family. Bill Orton was a great representative of Utah. I always admired his willingness to vote for what was right and fit the needs of Utah, even if it wasn't within party lines. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Chris | 10:52 p.m. April 18, 2009

A man of wisdom and integrity, Bill Orton was one of the greatest congressmen in our state. We need more leaders like him. As we remember his life, may we be inspired to seek out and elect leaders with such integrity in the future. Our sympathy goes out to his family.

Tuffy Parker | 10:56 p.m. April 18, 2009

Congressman Orton represented and served Utah well. That a Democrat could be elected by one of the most Republican districts in the nation speaks volumes about his integrity and commitment to his constituents. If Clinton had not blindsided him and hung him out to dry with the Grand Staircase debacle, it's likely that this good man would have represented us for several additional terms.

May God bless his family in this difficult time.

Les | 10:58 p.m. April 18, 2009

I once had a chance to interview Bill Orton when he was running for the congress the first time. I was a rookie newspaper reporter and he was kind and patient in my stumbling and took time to answer my very simple and basic questions. It was an honor to have known him.

the Pugs | 11:17 p.m. April 18, 2009

Bill Orton was a politician for the people not the party. Hence so many of us republicans voted for him. He still has the photo in his office of him kissing our newborn along the July Fourth Parade route. He was a single man seeking office in Utah County! He later worked with our young daughter as a poster child for the March of Dimes. He will be missed. Condolences and peace to the family.

Chris Cannon | 11:20 p.m. April 18, 2009

Tuffy wrote: That a Democrat could be elected by one of the most Republican districts in the nation speaks volumes about his integrity and commitment to his constituents. If Clinton had not blindsided him and hung him out to dry with the Grand Staircase debacle, it's likely that this good man would have represented us for several additional terms....

Exactly.

Bill was one of the "Good Guys." I will miss him. Utah will miss him. My heart goes out to his lovely wife and wonderful sons. You will be in our prayers.

Andy Wilson | 11:46 p.m. April 18, 2009

Bill Orton was the first Congressman I ever voted for when I turned 18, and the first campaign I ever volunteered on. His example made me want to be engaged in politics even when the average teen was certainly apathetic about politics, and helped inspire me to a life of public service.

My best memory of him was during the 1994 impasse over the budget when they shut the gov't down, Bill and another moderate Rep. Congressman proposed an alternate budget that met all of the criteria that both the Dems and GOP had set for what they wanted. No one paid attention, as partisanship won out over progress and reason.

The world was a better place for him being here, and is a worse place without him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this impossible time.

Graig Larsen | 12:45 a.m. April 19, 2009

Having known Bill since we were kids, this news is sad indeed. He was a good young man who used his skills to become an accomplished professional and civil servant. We moved to California well before Bill was elected to Congress, but I followed his career with interest. Our hearts go out to his family, his wife and sons, and his many friends and former constituents who will surely miss him. This is a sad day.

I can't believe it | 12:47 a.m. April 19, 2009

What a shock. I can't believe it. Life is fragile.

Dropping By | 12:56 a.m. April 19, 2009

I voted for Bro. Orton during his first run for Congress, even though I am a conservative Republican. I had seen the shocking, odious ad run by his Republican opponent who was all but assured of winning (polls were at something like 80-20 just days before the election -- Orton had NO CHANCE).

But even though I was absolutely certain that I was throwing my vote away, I waited in line and voted for Orton, because I was so disgusted by the smug, holier-than-thou campaign tactic of a BYU professor (and administrator) who should have known much, much better than to do anything like that. I was just about to graduate from BYU Law School, and I had loved my time there and my professors, but that Republican congressional candidate crossed. the. line. Words can't describe how excited I was the next morning to learn that tens of thousands of others had clearly felt the same way and had repudiated such an ugly display.

It's rare in life when arrogance and elitism are so roundly beaten back so easily. RIP, Bro. Orton.

CP | 1:27 a.m. April 19, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers to the family of Bill Orton. He was a great person and did much for the state of Utah.

VegasBob | 2:01 a.m. April 19, 2009

I voted for this guy in 2000. I have never seen any one that was so willing to cross the party line for what he saw as right. If the Democratic Party (not to mention the Republicans) in Utah would take a page from Bill's book, they'd own the state again. This guy was total class.

jan12 | 2:06 a.m. April 19, 2009

He was not a politician, he was an elected representative. He set a standard that few in political office will ever understand.

Condolences to his friends and family.

I wish... | 2:10 a.m. April 19, 2009

I wish there were more men like him. If there were more like him here, this would be a better place. If there were more like him in Washington D.C., this would be a different and much better world.

PDX | 2:15 a.m. April 19, 2009

Thank you Bill Orton for a life well-lived. You helped take away the "party" glasses we all wear.

D Shields | 3:07 a.m. April 19, 2009

Condolences to his family and all who loved him. I respected him as a person and as a politician. Such a loss.

Rudy D. | 3:11 a.m. April 19, 2009

I moved from Utah 13 years ago and count myself a Republican. However, if there were more public servants like Bill Orton in any political party I would join it. I have always admired Democratic politicians in Utah like the late Gov. Scott Matheson, Ted Wilson and Bill Orton who served their constituents and conscience first and foremost.

It is indeed a sad day for Utah. My heartfelt condolences to his family for their great loss.

Kevin Alspaugh | 4:12 a.m. April 19, 2009

I am shocked by this news. Bill Orton was a true man with integrity and honor. He was a true democrat. He beleived in his agenda. He was proof that no matter what side of the political isle you are on, you can be an uncompromising Latter-day Saint. He was a man of action and not of flattery. My hope and prayer is that more youth aspire to follow the legacy of this man and seek true solutions to the people's needs in this nation. Bill Orton, may you rest in peace. Until we meet again.

M. Bowen | 4:53 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill will certainly be missed. Deepest condolences to Jacquelyn and their sons.

ER | 6:53 a.m. April 19, 2009

Amen.

When was the last time we read a comments board that everyone agreed on the issue being discussed? Rarely does it happen and this time it is because he was such a rare man. Bill was a man of the people and he truly was a representitive.

Amanda Thorderson | 8:08 a.m. April 19, 2009

Utah lost a great man yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jackie and her boys at this difficult time.

Doodles | 8:10 a.m. April 19, 2009

I attended several caucuses sponsered by Congressman Orton in southern Utah and his insightful and honest presentations were wonderful.

One meeting was at Snow College where he patiently and carefully answered question after question from young and eager students who were not very careful in asking or understanding his answers. He did not lose his cool, but kept finding another way to explain the budget until they understood. He fianlly took loose change out of his pocket and divided up the national budget for them using nickels, dimes and quarters until they could grasp the concept of governmental financial responsibilities and choices. He is a great teacher.

Merrill Cook | 8:11 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill Orton was one of the finest men I ever knew in politics and a very good friend. Camille and I are heartsick, just absolutely heartsick to hear the news. Our prayers are with his wonderful wife and family.

dave | 8:53 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill was a true statesman. He will be missed.. RIP

Mary | 8:55 a.m. April 19, 2009

I am proud to have been able to call Bill my cousin. I did not know him as a polician but as the cousin that was a bit older then me and was willing to push me on the swing at the family reunion. What his running mate may not have taken into consideration is that Bill has a HUGE family. Maybe not one that he had produced but none the less a family that stood right beside him all the way. Thank you for your kind words about Bill. I know he made his parents proud and there is a larg void in the family with his loss. I know the Lord will bless and comfort his family. (HUG)

Joel Lawson | 10:29 a.m. April 19, 2009

It was an absolute honor to work for Bill Orton in Congress. He took his duties very seriously, yet didn't take Washington seriously at all. As his press secretary, I had to write explanations for Bill's positions that didn't always translate well inside Congress' echo chamber, but which aligned with his obligation to his constituents. He knew what mattered. Additionally, in co-founding the Blue Dog Democrats, Bill made his mark on congressional history.

Nathan Hadfield | 10:32 a.m. April 19, 2009

The only personal encounter I had with Bill Orton was when he visited my high school 17 years ago. I can't remember exactly what he said, but I remember feeling impressed by his intelligence, integrity, and generosity, and grateful that a man with so many obligations would make time to speak with us. He was an exemplary leader and public servant, and he will be missed.

My deepest sympathies are with his family.

MoJules | 10:49 a.m. April 19, 2009

I am sorry to hear of Bill Orton's passing, in such a tragic way. I wish the best for his family during this time of loss and sorrow. He was a man I respected back when he was in office.

Henry Drummond | 10:57 a.m. April 19, 2009

I was sad to hear of Bill's passing. I think he went into politics for the right reasons and was an effective member of congress. I knew Bill professionally and I admired his public spirit. It does seem strange because I was just thinking about him the other day and I'm very sorry to hear about this accident. My heart goes out to his family.

SUZYK | 11:07 a.m. April 19, 2009

What a tragedy and great loss to his family, friends and the State of Utah. I too remember Bill Orton as a man with conviction, desire to serve and make things better. He certainly did his best in all he set out to do.

Desert Storm Family | 11:25 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill was one of only two people serving in the state who went out of their way to support a family event for the 144th Evac (Utah National Guard) during Desert Storm. He was compassionate and caring. In just that brief time we came to respect him and love him. He will be missed.

mom of five | 11:28 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill Orton was the first representative I voted for on moving to Utah 20 years ago. I am greatly saddened to hear of his passing, and I send condolences and love to his wife and children and all his extended family. He will be missed.

Staunch Republican | 11:36 a.m. April 19, 2009

Bill Orton was a man of complete integrity and honor. He won me over. Sincere sympathies to his widow and children.

Tekakaromatagi | 11:49 a.m. April 19, 2009

A great man. A Democrat in the best American tradition.

This is a great loss.

Tekakaromatagi

Citizezn | 12:23 p.m. April 19, 2009

I can understand Karen Hale's tears. Not only was Bill her associate, but her daughter and another collegue (Pete Suazo) were both killed in ATV accidents a few years ago. This must be a terrible reminder of that pain.

My prayers go out to the Orton's and others who have suffered similar losses.

Janet Thaeler | 12:23 p.m. April 19, 2009

I just read about this shocking and heartbreaking news a few minutes ago. An amazing man who I have a lot of respect for. My prayers go to his wife and sons.
Janet

Instereo | 12:56 p.m. April 19, 2009

Living in Eureka, near the Sand Dunes, it's always sad to hear of the accidents there. It was extremely sad though to read today that it was Bill Orton involved. My prayers go out to his family and also that the ideals he stood for will someday be realized.

J Nelson | 1:04 p.m. April 19, 2009

I didn't know Bill Orton personally but I did have the honor of voting for him. I'm so glad I did, as he represented Utah and my views beautifully and with class. As a true statesman, which is so rare, he showed us an example of how to interact in even the most contentious circumstances.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of this special man.

Patrick Gibbs | 1:26 p.m. April 19, 2009

I did not know Bill Orton - I never met him. But he had a great effect on me. I grew up as a staunch Republican, and was one until I was about 20 years old, and I didn't think very highly of Democrats. But Bill Orton's passion for his causes, his willingness to buck the system and to cross party lines and his sheer stubborness and idealism kept catching my attention, and I grew to respect and admire him. Now, everyone who knows me now knows that I am a proud Democrat and very passionate and idealistic. I crecit Bill Orton with playing a huge role in planting that seed with his love of people and his sincerity, something that cn be rare in any poltyical party or goverment office. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Representive Orton - but at the same time, if you find something you disagree with up there, lobby against it.

Anonymous | 2:19 p.m. April 19, 2009

To Dropping By: I just couldn't let this pass. You need to know that Karl Snow was not responsible for the nasty ad that was run against Bill Orton. Two guys who are known in this state for dirty politics were responsible for that ad. Unfortunately, Karl Snow paid the price for it. Karl Snow is actually a very good and decent man who has served the state for many years in many capacities.

I have nothing against Bill Orton. He was a decent guy. But, he was elected on a weird fluke that was caused by a couple of dirty people who were involved in the campaign and lack of unity in the Republican Party at that time. He was not representative of the people in his district and he was eventually defeated for that reason.

My condolences go out to his wife and children. It's a very sad day for them and certainly a shock. May God bless them.

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