William "Bill" Robinson

William "Bill" Edward Robinson, a man whose spirit was as vast as his love for the open land, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 15, 2024, at his cherished homestead in Birdseye, Utah. At 92, Bill lived a life brimming with stories, laughter, and a deep connection to the earth that molded him.
Born on August 27, 1931, Bill was the eldest son of Louis C. and May Hardman Robinson. He spent his childhood on the family farm in Pleasant Grove, Utah, where the echoes of early mornings, rising with the sun, and whispers of wind through the fields became the soundtrack of his soul. He learned the rhythm of the land, tending to livestock and weaving tales of solo horseback journeys across Utah Lake, knapsack on his back, heart brimming with adventure.
A true Viking at heart, Bill graduated with the Pleasant Grove High School Class of 1949, leaving a legacy as an exceptional athlete, his prowess shining on the basketball court and baseball field. He was, in every sense, an American cowboy, a title he wore with pride and a twinkle in his eye.
On March 26, 1951, Bill did what he later declared his smartest feat – marrying his high school sweetheart, JoAnna Roundy, in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. Her quick wit, sharp mind (as evidenced by her superior spelling), and unwavering spirit became the compass guiding their journey. Together, they raised five children in the idyllic countryside north of Pleasant Grove, building a magical life on their farm, a haven where laughter echoed, and love blossomed.
Bill's dedication extended beyond the family. He built a distinguished career at USS Geneva, rising to the position of Senior Melter in the Open Hearth, before retiring in 1984. Yet, his true passion lay with horses. As members of the American Fork Riding Club, Bill and JoAnn embarked on a 35-year odyssey, breeding Appaloosas with unmatched success. With one of their foals, J & B Spotted Fawn, which became a legend in the racing world, securing her place in the Appaloosa Hall of Fame.
When retirement beckoned, Bill and JoAnn traded the thunder of hooves for the bellowing of cattle. Their dream ranch in Birdseye became their sanctuary, where Bill found solace in the open fields, researching prime bulls, and watching his herd thrive. His love for the land was a language spoken in every furrowed brow and every callused hand.
Bill's legacy lives on in the hearts of his children: Randy (Jan), Kim (Shalana), Jolene Lesh, Robin (Kriket), and Kurt (Kim). His 21 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, with 2 on the way, and 3 great-great grandchildren, with 2 on the way to carry his spirit in their laughter, their love for adventure, and their unwavering connection to family. He leaves behind a brother, Jerry (Marie) Robinson, sisters-in-law Nelda (Doug) and Jane (Roland), sisters Jill (Gordon) Smith and Floris (Roger) Olsen, and brother-in-law Richard White.
Preceded in death by his parents, Lou and May, Granddaughter Amber, Brothers: Doug, and Roland, and Sister: Joyce. Reunited now with his sweetheart JoAnn, who he missed dearly, Bill's absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. Yet, his memory is a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a love for the land that touched everyone he met. He was a cowboy in every sense, a Viking in spirit, and a family patriarch whose love will forever echo through the fields and hearts he touched.
The celebration of Bill's life will be a testament to the joy, laughter, and love he so generously shared. Let us remember him not with tears, but with smiles, stories shared under starry skies, and the gentle rhythm of the land he held dear.
Rest in peace, Bill. You are loved, you are missed, and your memory will forever gallop wild and free.
An evening viewing will be held Sunday, January 21, 2024 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm in the Olpin Family Mortuary Chapel, 494 South 300 East, Pleasant Grove.
Funeral services will be held Monday January 22nd from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Cedar Hills 17th ward chapel, 3950 West Cedar Hills Drive, Cedar Hills UT 84062 where family may attend a viewing prior to services from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m.
Interment will be in the Pleasant Grove City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.olpinmortuary.com.