Bill B. Bumgarner

Bill B. Bumgarner, 80, died on October 16, 2008 after a short but courageous fight against leukemia. Born June 11, 1928 in Wilkes County, N.C., he was the fourth of six children born unto parents Lin and Mary Lee (Pearson) Bumgarner, which preceded him in death along with his brothers, Edward Daniel Bumgarner, Joseph Clinton (J.C.) Bumgarner, and sisters, Linda Howell and Bronda Blakewood. Surviving him are his wife of 45 years, Paula L. Bumgarner; son, Carl and wife, Laura; his daughter, Karen Waskey and husband, Stephen; and sister Peggy Marley and husband, Paul, of Wilkesboro, N.C.; three grandchildren, Carlin Bumgarner, and Brooks and Kelly Waskey. Bill attended Catawba College, but soon left to start his own business. At age 19 he purchased his first trucking company from Lowes Hardware which then operated from one store in downtown North Wilkesboro, N.C. He then spent the next 61 years of his career working in the transportation industry, except for his military service. From 1950-52 he was drafted in to the United States Army, where he was decorated, proudly serving his country during the Korean Conflict. He spent 13 months stationed at the IX Corps Headquarters in Korea as a Corporal in the Medical Corps. During his service he participated in the military movements of Heartbreak and Bloody Ridge. After returning home, he resumed his transportation interest by owning and operating various trucking companies over his long career. He moved to Roanoke, VA in 1957 after purchasing Russell Transfer, Inc. of which he was the President and a stockholder for 28 years. Most recently he was the proud founder and retired President/CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Fleetmaster Express, Inc. in Roanoke, Va.
Most people will remember Bill for the great stories he had to tell about his fulfilling lifetime of adventures, the time he spent with his family, and the amusing situations he experienced with those around him. He also had a great love of summertime homegrown tomatoes and ACC basketball. For all that knew him well, they admired the kind, courteous, and considerate lifestyle that he lived. He will be missed by many. The family wishes to thank everyone that has acknowledged Bill's memory during this difficult time.
A memorial service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 214 Mountain Ave., Roanoke, Va. on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 11 a.m. with a reception immediately following in the Fellowship Hall.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Rescue Mission of Roanoke, P.O. Box 11525, Roanoke, VA. 24022-1525. Arrangements by Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100