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William Dejarnette Obituary
Passed away peacefully at age 86, June 14, 2020 in the company of his sons Bill and Bob, and grandson John, in Rio Rico, AZ. Granddaughter Kriel and daughter Lauren helped tremendously in the final weeks.
Born in Kansas City, MO October 4, 1933 to Joseph W. DeJarnette and Marie Kubitski he was the oldest of two sons.
Bill served in the Air Force during the Korean War training radio operators at Kessler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS. Shortly after enlisting in 1953 he married his love for life Frieda Marie White whom he met in Paola, Kansas.
He received a B.A. from Kansas University and worked in the film industry for most of his younger life, living first in Lawrence, KS and later in Louisville, KY.
Bill and Frieda shared a love for the outdoors, collecting art and knick-knacks at estate sales, and had similar views of spirituality and the meaning of life. They moved to Arroyo Grande, CA in 1980 where they lived happily for 25 years developing many long-lasting friendships. They moved to Rio Rico, AZ in 2005. Frieda passed away in 2008 and Bill remained faithful to her memory until his passing.
Bill was an amazing father, grandfather, and friend, staying in touch with numerous relatives and friends over the years. He was generous to a fault, kind and caring, and with Frieda supported many philanthropic and humanitarian causes over the years. They championed equal rights and knew no bias against anyone. He was a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow recipient. Everywhere he went he spread goodwill and will be missed by many.
Bill is survived by his three children Bill DeJarnette, Lauren Flanagan, and Bob DeJarnette, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Due to the current social distancing requirements there are currently no plans for a memorial service but one will be scheduled.
Memories and Condolences
for William Dejarnette
Bill DeJarnette
June 23, 2023
Just thinking about you as always dad and hoping we meet again in the future. Life is so different without your loving presence.
Bill DeJarnette
June 22, 2022
It's been two years now dad and I miss you so much. Watching sports is just not the same without you here to share the experience. Just one of many things I miss. You and mom are always in my thoughts.
Bill DeJarnette
June 22, 2021
Thinking of dad a lot the last two weeks as the first anniversary of his passing came and went. How I miss watching games with him, fishing, doing crossword puzzles. I lost my dad and best friend. Remembering you fondly dad.
Betsy
December 26, 2020
You were a wonderful man. I loved your company and learned from your wisdom. Say hi to Frieda for me.
Rick Hamilton
July 3, 2020
He was truly a wonderful man. I worked with him and young Bill for many years and we all enjoyed every minute together. They took me into their family and we were all great friends. Bill was hilarious and not always intentually which made young Bill and I laugh even more. We've said his 'punchlines' to each other over and over. I was lucky enough to speak to him just days before his passing. I will miss him and my love goes out to his family.
Bruce Monro
July 3, 2020
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to your normal routine, remember the good times you and he had.
Annette DeHate
June 30, 2020
My thoughts are with you all.
Doug & Grace
June 29, 2020
So saddened to learn of this news. Sending our condolences to his family. Surprised that he left us too soon, since were with him just back in February. Keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill DeJarnette
June 29, 2020
It's been two weeks dad and I miss you so much. Hope you are resting easy and cruising the universe with mom at your side.
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