Seems to me that is the right approach in this world of imperfect creatures.
Am I correct in feeling joy in his death, satisfaction in the end of his life, and hope that - without him as a reminder - the old Iraqi party faithful now have no one to turn to as a foundation?
Can you also recognize that someone not feeling "joy" at his death, or "satisfaction" in the end of his life without repentance, is not necessarily a bad person? Can you understand that some may prefer him "dead by hanging" to "alive and in power," but still not rejoice?
I believe you can, but my problem is with those who can't.
Putting out a house fire might be preferable to letting it burn, but that doesn't mean a family rejoices at the water damage, even if they are glad the fire company came.
I'm not sure the intent of your post to me. While I don't feel I have cause to "celebrate" Saddam's execution, I'm certainly glad he's gone never to brutalize his country or the Iraqi people, or their neighbors again. I take no joy in his execution, but feel sorrow for the need for humanity to confront such evil in the first place. My preference would be that brutal thugs such as Saddam and bin Laden never existed. The unfortunate reality is that they do, and must be stopped at all costs. If that required an execution, then by all means, execute them.