William (Bill) Arthur Strong, 89, El Dorado Springs, formerly of Springfield, passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016, at Lake Stockton Healthcare Facility in Stockton with his wife by his side.
William was born Dec. 22, 1926, at Mansfield. He moved to Springfield as a young boy to live with his grandparents.
Bill served in the Navy in the South Pacific in World War II.
Bill married Dolores Jean Porter on Nov. 21, 1953, and they were married almost 63 years.
Bill started working at a young age and worked at numerous places. In 1953 he began his career at Lily Tulip/Owens of Illinois. He became a supervisor, retired in 1983, and went back as a consultant for five years. He later became a driver for a Limousine Company in Springfield and traveled over the United States delivering cars.
Bill was saved as a young boy. After he and Dolores were married he became a member of High Street Baptist Church where he served over 50 years.
Bill was a hard worker who enjoyed his life and family very much. He had a passion for music. He was a guitar player for many years and played locally.
In his younger years he had his pilot’s license and enjoyed flying small engine planes. He also enjoyed fishing and spending time at the lake.
Preceding him in death were his father, Leslie Isam Strong, his mother, Linda Knight, and one sister.
Survivors include children: William Gregory (Greg) Strong and Gina, Jill Norval and Rusty, and a very special daughter-in-law, Robie; grandchildren – Shawn Strong and Kelley, Brandi O’Reilly and Ryan, Erika Murry and Nathan, Nick Norval and Brooke and six great-grandchildren.
Services will begin Thursday, Oct. 27, at 11 a.m. in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield officiated by Bro. A.R. Wilson under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.
Pallbearers will be Greg Strong, Rusty Norval, Shawn Strong, Ryan O’Reilly, Nathan Murry and Nick Norval.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Hospice in Butler or High Street Baptist Church in Springfield in care of Bland Hackleman Funeral Home in El Dorado Springs.
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