William Leland McNabb

The world got a little quieter on February 1, 2026, with the passing of William “Bill” McNabb. Born on October 9, 1963, Bill was a force of nature who lived life with a rare kind of strength—a proud indigenous man and an enrolled member of the Little Shell Chippewa of Montana tribe, a dedicated veteran who never let a fallen soldier’s name be forgotten, and a free spirit who was truly at home on his motorcycle.

If you knew Bill, you knew where he stood. A man of many words—and he never held them back. He didn’t always say what people wanted to hear, and not everyone agreed with him, but he always spoke his truth. And behind that loud voice was a heart as big as the world. He was the kind of man who would help anyone with no questions asked; if you were in need, he was there. He wasn't just a father and husband; he was a pillar of our family’s heart.

He was a fierce advocate for veterans and made it his mission to ensure their sacrifices were never forgotten. Building the Idaho Fallen Hero Memorial wasn’t just a project—it was his way of teaching, honoring, and reminding the world what really matters.

He is survived by his wife, Mary McNabb; his children Joe (Hayliee) Maldonado, Daniel McNabb, Kandida Molina, Hanoi McNabb, Sabian Sturgeon, Hazel Eagle, and Jaelee Running Bear; his grandchildren Jordan, Paetyn, Paige, Elli, Vinnie, Vanity, Vayden, Junior, and Raya; his brothers Tony (Clarice) Charette, Don (Laurie) McNabb, Glenn (John) McNabb, sisters Lorna Peltier, Vivian (Darren) Waples, Genevieve Hansen. Also, many nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. We cannot forget all of the foster kids he helped throughout his life with his first wife, Sylvia Maldonado.

He was welcomed by many on his journey to the stars. Those include his parents Raymond and Alfreida Charette McNabb; brother Raymond (Lorna Jean) McNabb Jr., brother-in-law Chuck Hansen; his grandparents; many aunts and uncles; a few grandchildren; and foster children Melisa Newton, Fallon Saunders, Chris Anderson, Thro, and Janelle Crist.

We find peace imagining him on the ultimate ride—wind in his face as he pulls harder on the throttle and finally free on those golden highways in the sky. He lived boldly, stood for what he believed in, and left a mark that won’t fade.

A celebration of life is tentatively planned for April 19, 2026 with the location to be determined at a later time. The family will communicate the full details when determined.