William "Bile" Woodlund

William "Bile" Woodlund obituary, Des Moines, IA

William "Bile" Woodlund

William Woodlund Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Iles Sundberg Kirkpatrick Chapel on Nov. 8, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

William Lee Woodlund, known to most as "Bile," was born November 2, 1953, in Perry, Iowa, and passed away peacefully at his home on November 5, 2025.
He was the son of Albert E. and Laura Jean (Little) Woodlund. Bile attended school in Luther, Iowa, and later in Madrid. On August 21, 1972, he entered the United States Army, serving his country until his honorable discharge on March 19, 1976. Following his service, he made his home in Madrid and began working at Firestone Tire in 1972, where he remained until his retirement in 2009.
On August 15, 2003, Bile married his "Squeeze," Carol Latta, and together they shared a full and lively life with their blended family of six children.
Bile was a proud and active member of Amvets Post 210, VFW Auxiliary, American Legion and was a member of the MBDA in Madrid He could often be found at the Madrid VFW, and was well-known as the self-proclaimed "#1 raffle ticket seller."
He enjoyed canning, fishing, gardening, bonfires, parties, and taking trips-especially when he was behind the wheel. He was quick-witted, always ready with a grin and a joke, and loved to show off his dimples when he was "pulling your leg." He made great omelets, "Poor Man's Pizza," and loved taking the kids for rides on the ranger while supervising everyone else around.
Bile had a big heart and was always willing to lend a hand-helping neighbors with yard work, cutting firewood for his sister Jan (usually in exchange for a pie), and making friends wherever he went. He never met a stranger-if he couldn't remember your name, he'd simply call you "Chief."
He loved his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren dearly-and above all, he adored his "Squeeze," Carol. Together, they shared countless laughs and dances, often right in the middle of the street.
Bile was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Daniel Woodlund.
He is survived by his wife, Carol; six children: Amanda (Levi) Woodlund of Madrid, Kristy (Kris) Palmer of Madrid, Tracy (Tony) Herman of Madrid, Billy (Abby) Lopez of Madrid, Carmen (Ryan) Lopez of Grimes, and Bradley (Tylee) Lopez of Madrid; 16 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and siblings: Kenneth (Roz) Woodlund of Woodward, Janice Johnsen of Madrid, Sharon Winter of Madrid, and Donald Woodlund of Woodward.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the Madrid VFW, where a luncheon will be served. Burial will take place at a later date at Hopkins Grove Cemetery near Madrid.
Hootie Hoot!
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of William "Bile" Woodlund, please visit our Tribute Store.

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

People and places connected with William
How to support William's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor William Woodlund's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign William Woodlund's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?