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William J. "Bill/Bub" Foster

William Foster Obituary

Foster, William J. "Bill/Bub"
87, of Scottsdale, AZ passed away on December 16, 2014. Bill was born on September 25, 1927, in Yonkers, NY, to Raymond and Mary Foster. At a young age, he was given the nickname 'Bub' by his older sister who could not say "baby brother," and the nickname was used by relatives and friends alike. He graduated from Irvington (NY) HS in 1944. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy at he tender age of 17 and served as a submariner. The Navy became his passion and career until 1969. He met the love of his life in San Diego while on shore leave. They met, courted and married within a three-month span on December 23, 1952. Together they traversed the United States courtesy of the US Navy--moving from San Diego, CA to New London CT, back to San Diego, and finally to Fargo, ND, where he worked at the Naval Training Center. After retiring from the Navy, he had a second career in photofinishing which ultimately landed the family in Aurora, CO. After retiring in 1995, Bill and Dee desired a more relaxed lifestyle and warmer climate. They made their home in Prescott Valley, AZ, for 18 years before moving to Scottsdale, AZ, in 2014. Like most people, Bill will be remembered for different things by different people, but everyone will fondly remember his warm smile, big bear hugs and genuine concern for others. His passing leaves a big hole, but more important a legacy of what a loving husband, father and friend truly look like. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy (Dee) Foster, children, Suzanne (Mike), Mike (Chris), Karen, and Terri (Dan) and five grandchildren: Richard, Michele, Cameron, Bam, and Thomas. Bill's ashes will be spread over the Pacific Ocean and a memorial service is being planned for early 2015. The family thanks the staff of Hospice Family Care for their love and commitment to Bill over the past year, as well as the caring staff of Sunrise Assisted Living. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the 'Staff Appreciation Fund (SAF)' in Bill's name at 7370 E. Gold Dust Avenue, Scottsdale, AZ, 85258.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Jan. 6, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

Nick Nichols

January 9, 2015

To the Foster Family,

On behalf of the Charleston Base SUBVETS and Swamp Fox Chapter SUBVETS WWII, I offer you our sincere condolences on Bill's passing. We grieve with you on the loss of your loved one and all SUBVETS and their families have your family in our thoughts and prayers. There is no expiration date on the back of our dolphins and Bill will always be remembered as a “Brother of the Phin”, a member of our Greatest Generation, and a great Patriot.

RMC(SS) William J. Foster
US Navy WWII Submarine Veteran Retired
Now on Eternal Patrol
Sailor Rest Your Oar
Your Shipmates Have The Watch

Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate

Charleston Base Submarine Veterans
Nick Nichols, Base Chaplain

Bob Reinisch

January 7, 2015

On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans (On USSVI), we offer our sincere condolences to Dorothy and all of the Foster family and friends in your loss and sorrow. May God whisper peace into your hearts and comfort and heal them. We are grateful for William's service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service. To our “Brother of the Dolphin” … "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones who remain. Thank you for your service to our country." -- Chaplain Bob Reinisch, National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI.

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