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William Phillip Foster
1947 - 2016
William Phillip Foster
1947 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
William Foster Obituary
Besides travelling the world and jumping out of airplanes, he enjoyed playing golf with his Army buddies, running and competing in 2 marathons and many shorter races. He assisted other veterans as a volunteer for the Disabled American Veterans.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Stephanie (Hess) Foster; his son and best friend, William James Foster (Alison); grandchildren, Silas and Zoey Foster. He is also survived by his siblings, Granville J Foster III (Jan); Susan Barry-Levi (Jim); and Robert J. Foster (Susan); niece, Selena Foster; nephews, Michael Barry, Frederick J. Foster Jr. and Granville James Foster IV. He is pre-deceased by his parents; a daughter, Megan Elizabeth Foster; and his brother, Frederick J. Foster.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Fisher House Foundation https://donate.fisherhouse.org/default.aspx?tsid=3147; Soldier's Best Friend http://soldiersbestfriend.org/donate/; and the Disabled American Veterans https://www.dav.org/.
The family wishes to thank the incredible, amazing staff at The Mayo Clinic Hospital, especially Dr. Amit K. Mathur and his transplant team and all of Bill's wonderful nurses. Also, heartfelt thanks are due to the caring staff at HealthSouth Rehab Center in Mesa.
Funeral arrangements are courtesy of Lakeshore Mortuary in Mesa, AZ. Burial will take place on Friday, January 29, 2016 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Robert M Thomas
March 26, 2021
Col Foster is one of those great leaders, one of the few "real live officers" that I can say truly helped me to be a better soldier, rounded off my sharp edges, taught me humility, showed me to identify potential in soldiers from behavior and not hubris. The world is greater for his selfless caring and mentoring and lesser because he is unable to continue his mission...it is up to all of us who knew him to carry on his good works, with every breath. Thank You Bill...you are missed.
Dennis Lang
January 8, 2018
Hadn't heard of Colonel Foster's passing until now. While I was only an honorary member of the Phoenix Mafia, I worked with him closely for two great years standing up the 259th MI Group (West). Good man and great officer, should have received a star - and would have if he had lived on the East Coast. Rest in Peace, Sir.
June 3, 2016
I was lucky enough to care for "Mr. Foster" on a few occasions. I can't articulate why but he made a profound impact on my heart. He was always kind. I had thought of him often and always had thoughts of wellness and healing. While brief I feel blessed to have met him and send love and healing to his family. God bless.
Randie O'Neal
February 1, 2016
COL Bill Foster was a leader, dear friend, mentor and a great soldier. His presence will be missed in our lives. Condolences to Stephanie and BJ. Regards Randie, Tammy and Caitlyn
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Tom and Carrie Blankenship
January 31, 2016
Bill Foster was a leader, a mentor and, above all, a friend. He was a Ranger, a Paratrooper and a Soldier. He was a successful businessman, a competitive golfer and a proud grandfather. He was a good man; a better man than I; but I am a better person for having known him!
He brought out the best in people subordinates, peers and superiors, alike - leading by example, providing good advice and sound guidance. Bill did not dwell on his accomplishments or rest on his laurels; he just quietly moved on to the next challenge, issue or crisis; taking it in stride and seeing it to fruition.
Our sincerest condolences to Stephanie and family!
Amy A
January 27, 2016
Bill will be with you in your hearts always. Wishing you comfort in all the memories you shared. With deepest sympathy in this difficult time.
Julie Augeri
January 27, 2016
Our prayers are for God's comfort to surround you now and in the days to come.
Rich Augeri
January 26, 2016
I met Bill in 1997 and had the privilege of serving as his right hand man for nearly seven years in two consecutive military assignments. I studied under no finer officer. As others have already noted, Bill always focused downward toward the care and welfare of his soldiers. He succeeded by relying on his compassion and his instincts about individuals. He was a true citizen-soldier who found time to serve the country he loved while also fulfilling outside responsibilities to his civilian jobs and to a family that he cherished. When our days together as soldiers and co-workers were finally behind us, I was fortunate enough to simply spend occasional afternoons with Bill, golfing and chatting, reminiscing about the old days as veterans often do. In the end, his friendship was what mattered most. I will miss you, Bill. My friend.
Pat
January 26, 2016
Sorry for your loss. May you gain peace and strength through your heartfelt prayers (Psalm 102:1), along with the prayers of others in your behalf.
Norman Dudley
January 26, 2016
Bill: You inspired me to become a leader among the ranks of the Disabled American Veteran organization because of your love and sense of duty to our fellow comrades. You invited me into your home and called me friend. You will always have my respect as a man of honor. Thank you for your support over the years. May your loved ones, left behind, find comfort and peace during these times of sorrow.
Jesse Garcia
January 25, 2016
It was certainly an honor to be one of Bill's friends and fellow compatriots. I served with Bill from the time I joined the 297th MI in early 1984 to the time I left the 1st MI in 1999. I can attest to his magnanimous and vivacious personality that I will forever carry in my memories of him. I will always hear his friendly SALUTATION HEY "J " HOWS IT GOING? TO A TRUE WARRIOR AND FELLOW AIRBORNE INFANTRY COMRAD, I WILL MISS HIM LIKE A BROTHER-IN-ARMS AND WE WILL REUNITE IN THE FINAL BATTLEFIELD. MY SINCERE SYMPATHY TO HIS WONDERFUL WIFE AND HIS SON AND THE ENTIRE FAMILY. Airborne Special Forces and then Some! LTC JESSE S GARCIA,USAR RETIRED.
CW4 Ronald C. McMenimen (Ret)
January 25, 2016
COL Foster was not only a leader of the men and women that served with him, he was also a mentor to us. He set the example for us to follow and provided the encouragement for us to succeed. He was strong and dedicated, but also relaxed and friendly when the occasion called for it. He left many fond memories with us and he will be missed. It was an honor to have served with him.
January 24, 2016
Thank you Sir for all you have done for God our country,the military, our flag,the veterans you have helped especially me and the dav. You are missed by all. Your friend Mike Pappa Retired Air Force.
MSG Edmund Scott
January 23, 2016
I had the honor of serving with COL Foster in both the 1st MI Center and 259th MI Group. He always took the time to listen and took advice from superior AND from subordinates alike. When I first heard of his passing my heart ached for he was truly fine man and a great mentor. RIP Bill Foster
Jaime Roman
January 23, 2016
It was my honor to serve with Bill. He was a professional and distinctly proud of his service. Soldiers and rectitude were his highest priorities.
Richard Brooks
January 23, 2016
You Look To Find The Good In Other People,
And You Helped Us To Find The Best Within Ourselves. It Wasn't Just Your Words, But Always Leading By Example. Whenever There Was A Need, Or A Problem, You Were Always There To Lend A Helping Hand, Because You Would Always Understand. You Were Always There To Lead, And Play A Vital Part, Willing To Go The Extra Mile, Which To You Was Only A Start. I Just Want To Thank You, I Mean Sincerely Thank You, To Your Kind Smiling Face. Because Of You, And Only You, This World Is A Much Better Place...
Ron Dohrendorf
January 23, 2016
It was an honor and privilege for me to have known and served with such a good man.
Robin O'Neil
January 22, 2016
We are deeply saddened by the loss of a great man, husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
January 22, 2016
I have known Bill for 50 years. We were college room mates and best friends. We've gotten together many times over the years to play golf and have fun. He was a great man and loved by many. I will miss him dearly. My heart and prayers go out to his lovely wife Stephanie (whom I've known as long as Bill) and son BJ and family. My wife and I will be there for his funeral and to support his loved ones. Bruce & Francine McKenty
Domenic, Priscilla, David and Bethany (Ruby) Delmonico
January 22, 2016
We will remember with great fondness our visits to Arizona and sharing time with Bill and Steph. Family and relationships developed over the years with the military were always Bill's highest priorities. Our sincere condolences go out to Steph, William and Alison.
Steve Herrington
January 21, 2016
It was a real blow to learn of Bill's passing... What a great guy! Not only was he a superb officer and gentleman, but he had a personality that appealed to everyone he met. I haven't been in touch with Bill for a few years, yet I can see his ready smile and hear his voice (and visualize him in that Porsche) so well... This is a personal tragedy for everyone who knew him.
My sincere condolences to his family...he was truly one of the good guys.
Jeffrey Koontz
January 21, 2016
COL Bill Foster truly was a great leader and as reliable as they come. I had the awesome opportunity to be one of his 1SG's and he really supported the soldiers at all levels. I truly would go anywhere, anytime with him. He was truly loved by the Koontz Family and will be sorely missed!
January 21, 2016
I recently heard that Bill had passed away.
As a long time friend and co worker of Stephanie, I am so saddened by the news. My husband Roland and I send our deepest condolences to Stephanie, and BJ and family. Our hearts go out to you. Sincerely, Pam Gassler and Roland
Susan Hess
January 20, 2016
Thinking of Stefie, BJ, Alison, Zoey and Silas during this difficult time. We know that Bill was a wonderful husband to Stefie and best friend to BJ. We are finding out how important he was to his military community and what great friends he has. May your memories bring you comfort. Love, Susan and Patrick
William Foster
January 20, 2016
I grew to knew my father as a man of expansive knowledge and experience. A man who held his troops in the highest regard no matter the circumstance. "Always take care of your men no matter what, you're troops are first priority". A man who loved his family unconditionally and would do anything to secure their future. A man who could hold his own. A man who could drink a beer with the best of em. A man who did what needed to done. I will always remember him in the absolute highest regards and pass on everything he taught me to his grandchildren who loved him so dearly. His legacy will continue on, and I am extremely grateful for everyone of you that got to know what a great man that my dad truely was. I miss you so much pops...and always will.
Jim Foster
January 20, 2016
How do I express my feelings for someone who was always there for his family, our mother and his country. Words fail. Life is so short and time passes so quickly! Bill was the best. Everyone who knew him respected him and knew they could count on him. His death is a tragedy and we have lost a very special person. He was my brother and best friend. Bill we will miss you. Jim
Jerry Ehrlich
January 20, 2016
"I was deeply saddened to learn of COL Foster's passing. I had the honor of serving with him in the Army Reserve for many years. My sincere condolences to his family. He was an exemplary commander and this is one soldier who will never fade away"
Russ & Kristen Hamilton
January 19, 2016
I've known Bill Foster since the 297th MI Det days beginning in 1984, when I joined the reserves after active duty. He was an excellent officer and commander who was a consummate professional, yet also one of the guys. Kristen also got to know Bill in the mid-90's she too remembers him for his laugh and his warm presence. We will miss Bill but he will always be with us in our hearts so he will never be forgotten.
Merritt Otto
January 19, 2016
My heartfelt and deepest condolences to Steph and BJ. You are in our prayers. I have the distinct honor of knowing Ranger Bill since 1983 when he reported in to the 297th. He taught us all something valuable about caring, selfless leadership, every minute we served with him. He modeled dogged, unflinching, yet humble, competence... and absolute loyalty to all. He taught us how to soldier. He seemed immortal. Guess why this is particularly difficult for me. There are simply none better. Time for us all to "take a knee" and remember our: leader/mentor/friend...brother. We are all better for having known and served with such a man. He gave of himself for others...always. Bill will be sorely missed by many great folks...that HE made greater.
Tim Kraemer
January 19, 2016
I have known and proudly served with Bill for over 35 years. As mentioned by all he was truly a great leader, mentor, and very good man. But for me he was "My Best Friend" and will be sadly missed. Steph, B.J. and family you will be in our prayers.
Mereciano Trujillo
January 19, 2016
I am saddened that I have lost a friend and a former commander. I am grateful that a man like Col. William Phillip Foster once lived. He and his family are in my prayers.
Peter Thompson
January 19, 2016
Col. Foster was an exemplary Army officer. It was an honor and privilege to have served with him in the 297th M.I. Company (SF)(CEWI)(Abn). I am grateful for his friendship and example. His family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Michael Conrad
January 19, 2016
I had the honor to serve under Col. Foster in the 297th Military Intelligence Company (Special Forces) (CEWI) (Airborne). He was an outstanding officer and a very good man and I will always remember him. My family and I offer our prayers to him and his family. May God bless you all.
Michael Garcia
January 19, 2016
COL Foster: Was a great mentor and his leadership provided the foundation which allow me to become a successful officer and a Intelligence professional. My time in the 297th MI CO was a top quality experience. Respectfully, COL Mike Garcia, MI, USAR (Battle Watch CPT-EUCOM)
G Khalsa
January 19, 2016
I will always remember the kindness and opportunity Bill extended to me during our concurrent service in the 297th MI CO, 1 MI Ctr, 259th MI GP and 63rd RRC.
He was an outstanding Officer and Human Being.
Tom Hegna
January 19, 2016
COL Bill Foster was a great leader, mentor and friend. But it was the way he always made YOU feel about how important you were to the unit. He was quick with a smile and his signature laugh. I enjoyed many weekends with COL Foster and he will be missed!
Susan Barry
January 18, 2016
Great man.great patriot and the best brother anyone could ask for. Will be missed.
January 18, 2016
" I'm sending my most heartfelt sympathy during this difficult time. Please know that GOD cares for you PSALMS 18:1,2
Carol Tabb
January 17, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss.
Bob Anderson
January 17, 2016
May Bill's family and friends remember him forever
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