William Michael (Santa) Pledger

William Michael Pledger, lovingly known as “Santa,” passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Victorville, California, on August 5, 1955, and was the middle child of Jimmy C. Pledger and Margaret Pledger. Mike grew up in the San Bernardino/Colton, California area and graduated from Colton High School in 1973.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy C. Pledger and Margaret Pledger; his brother, Jimmy Pledger; and his son, William Shane Pledger.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Pamela Pledger; his sister Nancy and her husband Rick Miller of Yuma; and his children: Michael Justin Pledger and wife Deanna of Grants; Matthew Pledger and wife Janell of Glendale; and Krystal Spencer and husband Bud of Bluewater.

He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kaylyn and Justin, Michael, Devan and Jaydaan; Baylee and Mercedes; and Cooper, Brayden, Mia, and Cayson.

After graduating high school, Mike traveled with his dad working on the railroad. Together, they spent years building switch yards, laying track, and helping construct the main rail line through Milan, New Mexico. He was especially proud to have helped lay the track for the VLA in Magdalena.

Mike spent 20 years of his life working for Colorado Blasting and Painting, where he built strong friendships, mastered his craft, and worked hard to support his growing family.

Mike and Pam raised three boys together and relocated their family to Milan, New Mexico, in May 1997. Mike and his father owned and operated Roadrunner Rail. Mike worked in many fields throughout his life, always willing to take on new challenges and lend a hand wherever he was needed.

For the last 16 years, he worked for Coyote Drilling, where coworkers truly became family. Weston Bohannon, Lui, Trace, and Faith shared countless memories, laughter, and adventures with Mike—relationships he valued deeply and carried close to his heart.

A lifelong Harley-Davidson lover, Mike found true freedom on the open road—the wind in his beard, the rumble of the engine, and, most of all, Pam right there on the back of the bike where she had always been. Riding wasn’t just a pastime for them; it was their time together, side by side, mile after mile—collecting stories, sunsets, and memories that will stay with Pam forever. She wasn’t just his passenger; she was his partner in every adventure, on the bike and in life.

In his later years, Mike found peace at Bluewater Lake, arriving early to fish with his loyal dog, Sammy. His happiest hours were spent on the water or surrounded by family. Mike’s favorite simple joys included riding his little red motorcycle, playing pool in the backyard, giving lawn mower rides to his grandchildren, making the best chile and cornbread, and ending the night with ice cream.

For the past 25 years, Mike brought magic to the Grants/Milan communities as Santa Claus. No matter the weather or how he felt, he never turned down the opportunity to put on the red suit and spread Christmas cheer. Bringing joy to others was simply part of who he was.

Mike touched the lives of many—near and far. For all the family and friends whose lives he blessed, there will be a Celebration of Life held on June 12, 2026, at Bluewater Lake, New Mexico. Time and further details will be shared at a later date.

Mike will forever be remembered for his generous heart, his steady presence, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. His legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in all who knew and loved him.