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Bill Geist Obituary

Geist, Bill
Bill Geist, 60, died peacefully on April 12, 2012 at his home in Tempe, Arizona with family and friends by his side. He left behind his loving wife and partner, Jacki Jones and his loving daughter, Kate Stevens. His immediate family living in Kansas includes his mother, Phyllis Rowland; and siblings: Gina Ramsey, Shane Geist, and Susan Arnold. He now joins his sister Robin Geist-Wick and his father, Gene Geist. Bill was born on January 7th, 1952 in Scott City, Kansas. He graduated from Scott Community High School and went on to be an avid Wildcats fan, as a Bachelor of Sociology graduate from Kansas State University (1975). He moved to Arizona after graduation and did numerous jobs in social services working with troubled children, most notably at Big Brothers of Arizona. He also found a calling as a recruiter, where he was recognized with dozens of awards. Bill found joy in this occupation as he could find amazing people to work in the healthcare and automotive industries, in hopes that it would lead to earth-friendly and humanitarian benefits. We cannot talk about Bill without mentioning his devotion to recovery and his support network. His life truly began when he found recovery. Bill always had a hug for the newcomer, words for those who were in need, a listening ear, and a welcoming spirit. He held several service positions over his 18 years of clean time and was a source of strength and hope to many. When he was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, he continued serving by volunteering for cancer treatments at both early and late stages of research. The service will be on Saturday, April 21st, at 1 - 5 p.m., at Phoenix First Congregational United Church, 1407 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004. In lieu of flowers: practice the seventh tradition, send a newcomer to ARCNA, donate to a charity benefiting children, or contribute to the charity of your choice. Bill would want to remind you that "Live is Good."

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

Published by The Arizona Republic on Apr. 15, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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December 19, 2012

To all of Bill's family, you are in everyone's thoughts this Christmas. He will be so missed this holiday.

Karen Craig

June 19, 2012

Katie is a beautiful testament to a Father absolutely adoring his kid! I remember four year old Katie and a dotin dad...lucky kid she was indeed!

Happy Day 2003

Jacki Jones Geist

May 28, 2012

A Kiss, feel him in our hearts 12/04

Jacki Jones Geist

May 28, 2012

Bill & Jacki Narda Falls, Mt Rainer Park, WA 10/2011

Jacki Jones Geist

May 28, 2012

At Derby Dames Bout, Kate (Midnight Choker!)

Jacki Jones Geist

May 28, 2012

Walking the Labyrinth at Billy and Cathy's 3/2012

Jacki Jones Geist

May 28, 2012

Karen

April 24, 2012

I was not able to attend Bill's service, but would have liked to. His smile was big in my heart, though. Would anyone be able to scan and send via email the memorial program from the service? Anyone care to share comments about the service celebrating Bill's life and contributions? Please email me at [email protected] and I will greatly appreciate. God bless!

Arie S

April 22, 2012

RIP Bill,thank you for sharing recovery and service with me.

Karrie Porter Brace

April 21, 2012

An amazing man, Bill Geist. Rest in the arms of true angels now.

Vicky Feldman

April 21, 2012

My heart goes out to Katie. I knew him at first as Joseph Feldman's best friend and roommate. He was there at the birth of our son, Nick, and I have several pics of Kate and him at that time. Wonderful HUGE heart, loved his laugh, and he made the best hamburger patties with those kind hands of his! Now he and Joseph can play some cards. I will miss being at his life celebration, if Kate wants copies of the pics or stories, email me. I also have a card for Kate and Jackie, if someone can email me an address. Hope to hear from someone! Such an awesome man, this world will miss very much. My sympathies Kate, Vicky Feldman [email protected]

Antonette

April 21, 2012

Bill was a wonderful example of a life in recovery. Rest in peace my friend.

Nancy G

April 21, 2012

RIP, Bill. You will be missed by many.

Rhonda Merritt

April 21, 2012

RIP Bill you will be missed.

Patty sperling

April 18, 2012

Bill was my introduction to service work in recovery.He showed me how to work with all personalities and put the principles first.He was patient and understanding.Thanks Bill G.I continue to serve.

Janet D

April 18, 2012

Very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was his own person and not concerned of who he "should" be.

A Friend

April 18, 2012

I will remember him this way.

Karen Craig

April 15, 2012

Bill Was one of the brightest men I've ever known, with a sense of humor that was wicked fun. He loved everyone. He loved reading, discussing, animals, cooking, people, and ideas. He had a very, very good heart. I will always remember him riding over to my house on a horse that was barely broke, and how he crossed some busy highways to come visit. He was brave, honest, good, and will be sorely missed. Good dancer, good singer, good at everything he tried. Be a good angel, Bill! We will meet again.
Karen Sandberg Craig, Wittmann, Az

Donon Regan

April 15, 2012

Bill Geist was a tremendously positive influence on people who suffered with addiction for many years. Not only did we have a friendship that went back to 1984, we also traveled similar life paths together. His compassion for the healing of others was virtually non-stop. Nobody had a bigger heart than Bill. He was a laid back, toe in the dirt, straw out his mouth kinda guy from Kansas. He was down to earth, the real deal, and a very loving human being. He will always be a personal hero of mine. I love you Bill......see you soon,
Sincerely,
Donon

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