Bill Hess

William “Bill” Hess Sr. July 12, 1945 – July 10, 2025

After a short illness, William “Bill” Hess, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, just two days before his 80th birthday. Surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments, Bill's passing marks the end of a life well-lived, a life that was defined by love, dedication, and the joy of helping those around him.

He was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He spent much of his career with Local Union 513, playing a vital role in building the roads that bring us all closer together. But Bill built more than just roads, he was a craftsman, a mechanic, a farmer, and a true builder of things. You could show him a picture or sketch of something you wanted built and he would be able to magically build it. He was a man of great talent. And, whether he was fixing a piece of equipment, building something from scratch, or creating something special for someone he loved, Bill’s hands were always busy.

At home, Bill loved to spend time in his shop, where he could be found making handcrafted ink pens, building birdhouses, or tinkering with whatever needed a little fixing. Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, his ability to always know how to fix things, and the joy he found in creating something with his own two hands.

Bill had a deep love for the outdoors, particularly fishing on Mark Twain Lake, in the last few months before his illness, you would always find him down at the Indian Lake Marina.These moments, often spent with his little doggie Brandi by his side, were his happy place, where he found peace and contentment. His quiet smile and his willingness to help anyone in need, will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Bill did not have any biological grandchildren, but he had many that considered him their Grandpa, and he was the favorite uncle to his many nieces and nephews that he has left behind.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and the importance of family. He will be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion, his generosity, and the quiet joy he found in life’s simplest pleasures.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Hess, his son, William Hess Jr., and daughter-in-law Michelle Hess of Tucson AZ, his daughter, Christylyn Hess-Kretiv, and daughter-in-law Christine M. Kretiv, also of Tucson AZ, Sister Barbara Kunkle of Tampa Florida, Brother Robert Dale Hess of Hannibal MO, Sister in Laws Terry Conner, Alien Nation, Sherri Gard, Brother in Law Robert (Bob) Gard all of Palmyra MO. and his nephew Zander Oppy who was like a grandson to him. He also left behind a whole host of nieces and nephews.

Though Bill has left this world, his spirit, his legacy, and his love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Memorial will be held at a later date. Please check Bill’s facebook page for updates.