William "Bill" Joseph Pancake

William “Bill” Joseph Pancake passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on March 28, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, Bill lived a remarkable life filled with hard work, love, and dedication to his family and community. His story is one of resilience, achievement, and cherished memories.

In 1947, Bill’s family moved to Walla Walla, Washington, where he grew up exploring the outdoors and developing a love for hunting and fishing, often accompanied by his father and siblings. His father, William Sr., ran a successful business, Lord Heating & AC, while his mother, Julia, assisted with bookkeeping. This environment nurtured Bill’s appreciation for family and community.

In 1957, Bill’s father passed away, which had a significant impact on Bill, who was 13 years old at the time. His mother, Julia, proved to be a pillar of strength, raising Bill and his three sisters-Linda, Ginny (Virginia), and Juliann-on her own. During this challenging period, Julia relied on help from the church and St. Pat’s Catholic School and decided to send Bill to the Morning Star Boys Ranch in Spokane, a transformative experience that gave Bill new direction and perspective. After nine months at the ranch, he returned home to attend DeSales Catholic High School.

It was at DeSales that Bill reconnected with Jackie Locati, his high school sweetheart. Their love blossomed, leading to their marriage in September 1963. Soon after, they welcomed their first child, William Dean “Billy”, followed by their daughter, Kim Marie. Despite the demands of parenthood, Bill and Jackie began building their future, starting with their first home in 1964. Bill worked nights and weekends, often with Jackie’s help, while juggling his job at a paint company. Jackie’s determination and resourcefulness left a lasting impression on Bill, as demonstrated by one memorable moment when she was asked by Bill to hold a board up a little higher, and instead set down that board and the hammer in quiet protest-a moment Bill deeply respected.

Over the years, Bill and Jackie built three additional houses, settling in their final home where Bill remained for 53 years. In addition to their passion for construction, the couple shared a love for the outdoors, enjoying activities such as skiing, horseback riding, boating, and camping. In 1985, they purchased a two-acre waterfront property on Priest Lake, Idaho, transforming it into a family retreat. Initially, a mobile home and garage with cots served as their base, but in 1993, they built a log cabin with materials sourced thoughtfully, including a beam from the Yellowstone National fire. This cabin became a beloved gathering place for family and friends, hosting countless memories, from quiet evenings to lively Fourth of July celebrations with fireworks-a tradition that added humor and excitement to gatherings.

Professionally, Bill was a dedicated craftsman and entrepreneur. In 1970, he partnered with Larry Heisey to form Pancake Heisey Joint Venture, a construction company focused on residential and commercial projects in Walla Walla and the Tri-Cities. Their partnership thrived for over a decade, and even after amicably parting ways, their friendship endured.

Following this, Bill and Jackie established Panco Construction, continuing to build a legacy of excellence.

Bill’s commitment to community development was equally impactful. In 1988, he joined the Walla Walla Main Street Foundation, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Walla Walla. His efforts included the renovation of the Liberty Theater, the addition of street lighting, sewer improvements, and the development of the Farmers Market. That same year, Bill purchased the historic Train Depot and transformed it into retail space and Jacobi’s restaurant, later adding a renovated Club Car for restaurant use. Bill’s vision and dedication brought new life to the area and cemented his role as a community leader.

Bill was very giving of his time and energy to many different avenues. From 1990 to 1998, Bill worked with Broetje Orchards to build New Horizon Preschool, 100 single-family homes alongside a chapel and community center for the orchard employees. This then grew into the Jubilee Youth Ranch for troubled teens.

After losing Jackie, his best friend and life partner, Bill reconnected with a childhood friend, Janie Hanlon, and they were later married on September 20, 2008. Bill lived his final years giving back to the community and especially to DeSales.

Family was central to Bill’s identity. He cherished his close relationship with his sisters, Linda, Ginny, and Juliann, and supported his extended family wholeheartedly. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Julia and William Pancake; his wife, Jackie Marie Locati Pancake; his son, William “Billy” Dean Pancake; his sister, Linda Pancake Emry Schuster; and his niece, Terri L. Moeller. He is survived by his wife, Janie Phillips Pancake; daughter, Kim Marie Pancake Berley; grandsons, Brendon Michael Kmetz and Levi William Kmetz; great-grandson, Braxton William Kmetz; and his sisters, Ginny Trout (Cliff) and Juliann Moeller (Dick). Janie’s children, Shane Phillips (Alexis), and grandchildren, Claire, Miles, and Vivian; Michael Phillips; Rochelle Harding (Ian); and granddaughters, Ellie and Amelia.

His family also includes 14 nieces and nephews, along with numerous great-nieces and nephews, all of whom valued their connection with “Uncle Bill.” His wisdom and guidance were a source of comfort and inspiration to many.

William “Bill” J. Pancake lived a life defined by hard work, love, and generosity. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his memory will endure for generations to come.

A celebration of life for Bill will be held at his family home on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Donations can be made to Walla Walla Catholic Schools in his memory. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.