I am truly saddened by the news that Bill is no longer with us here on earth, but I'm happy knowing he is off to a better place continuing to watch over his loved ones.
Bill and I grew up in the same neighborhood many years ago, and we were on the same teams for baseball, basketball, and football during our elementary and junior high days. That time seemed like ages ago, and although we have not been in touch much since, it sounds like as an adult, he is just an older version of that friend I had growing up. He was just a really good guy who was fun to be around and someone you could always count on.
When it came to sports, Bill loved to play them, and it showed with his enthusiasm and his willingness to sacrifice himself for the good of the team. I can still picture Bill defending the basket by stepping in front of a guy who was going for what was looking like an easy layup, in order to draw the charging foul for our team. He may have been even better at taking those charges than that Detroit Piston with the same first name. It showed he was an unselfish player willing to do the hard work and willing to do it for others, which are qualities I'm not surprised to see he carried into his adult life.
Although it has been many years, I still feel like I know Bill, and I'm saddened that we lost a friend who made the world a better place.
My deepest condolences to the family members he has left behind. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
John Springer