William E. "Bill" RICHARDS

(Age 83)

Bill passed away unexpectantly September 26, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, ID. Bill was born to Ernest and Lucille Richards on March 22, 1941, in Idaho Falls, ID. He had one sister, Lois.

When Bill was an infant, the family moved to Spokane, WA. The final move was in the NW part of town. Here, he and his sister went to Finch Grade School, Havermale Jr. High, and graduated from North Central High School.

Bill loved his sports, playing summer league baseball for many years. But golf was Bill's passion. Learning from the pro at Downriver Golf Course and that being the beginning of his love of the game. Playing every course in Spokane County and beyond. Bill learned the art of making and repairing golf clubs, which he did for many, including his grandchildren.

In 1958, Bill and, as he would always say, the "love of his life" Patsy Platt were married. The lifetime saga of their life would begin. They had lived one block from each other since the fifth grade. This union brought five beautiful children into their lives for a lifetime of wonderful love and companionship. Their little family of seven was a magnificent, robust, fun, full of energy, loving family. The joy of country living with horses, cows, rabbits, and big gardens to eat from made for the lifetime of forever love.

Bill was a salesman for a national garage door company in Spokane, WA. In 1992, he and Patsy were transferred to Boise, ID. Thus became their total love of Idaho, and they became true Idahoans. Bill had a large territory to cover giving the two of them places to go together. He became a top salesman for the company.

After Bill retired, they moved back to Northern Idaho and Coeur d'Alene. Bill was a member of the Air Force Reserves as a young man, a Shriner, a Mason, and belonged to the State Line Outboard Racing Association.

Bill is survived by his wife of 66 years (short six days), Patsy; son, Bob (Vicki); four daughters, Becky, Robin (Brent), Laurie (Eric), and Luci; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Lois.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

"All that is worth cherishing begins in the heart."