1942
2019
WILLIAM BLACKARD III William (Bill) Blackard III, age 76, passed away March 9, 2019, in peace, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by family. He was born December 26, 1942, in Oklahoma City. The embodiment of the American Dream, his journey in the Las Vegas neon sign industry began by sweeping floors at YESCO Sign Company in 1960. After his successful 20 year career with YESCO, Bill ventured to begin his own company, Sign Systems, Inc. SSI painted the Las Vegas Strip from 1980 to 1990, gifting the community with iconic signwork such as: The Stardust, The Flamingo, The Hilton, and many more. His works can still be found in the Neon Sign Graveyard today. His vision to create a beautiful, colorful, and elaborate spectacle can still be seen on The Strip and Fremont Street. His life was filled with eccentric alter egos, travel, love, and laughter. His drive to help those around him aided many in their personal business ventures. He inspired many to follow their own dreams and take risks. He was an avid golfer and was fortunate to play around the world at premier courses and with many celebrities. His love of football and the Oklahoma Sooners was matched by no other. Go Boomer Sooner! He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl; his two daughters, Dawn (Gregg Dennis) and Lauri (Mark White); and his four grandchildren, Sean and Meagan Dennis, and Chad and Taylor White; a sister; many nieces and nephews; and dear friends. Services will be at 11 a.m. Sat., March 16, at Shadow Hills Church, 7811 Vegas Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89128. Celebration of Life to follow. Please RSVP for celebration of life at 702-301-2237.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Palm Cheyenne Mortuary.
5 Entries
My deepest condolences to the Blackard family and friends of Bill. Lucky to be able to know him the past few years and saddened to hear of his passing.
Brian Tary
March 18, 2019
I can't begin to tell you just how sorry I am to hear about the passing of such a great man. I will miss talking to him about the Yankees and those "rotten Red Sox". He was one in a million and will be missed tremendously. He will live forever in spirit and in our hearts...
Kathy Bistritz
March 14, 2019
Kathy Bistritz
March 14, 2019
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of William. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure when it fills your heart with love and brings you joy. May you find comfort in Jesus promise of the hope of everlasting life at John 6:40.
VG
March 13, 2019
I am deeply saddened by the passing of this icon in the electric sign business in Las Vegas. He was an businessman's business man. A true entrepreneur. He had a true following by former employees and friends. He will be missed. He was a friend for many years.
Patrick McGehee
March 13, 2019
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