William Edward Petty

About

Washington State University Western Washington University

William Petty Obituary

William Edward Petty
2/2/57 - 1/18/09

Bill left this world peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him the most, on the evening of January 18, 2009, after a valiant 25 month battle with cancer. His loving wife of twenty nine years, Leslie, was by his side each and every step of the battle until it was time for Bill to begin his next journey.
Bill was born in Lacey, on February 2, 1957 to Larry and Ethel Petty. He graduated from North Thurston High School in 1975 where he was a stand out swimmer. Bill attended Western Washington University, where he met his future wife, Leslie Spooner. Bill graduated from Washington State University in 1982 with a degree in Landscape Architecture.
Bill spent several years working in landscape design and architecture ("dazzling" all who knew him by endlessly quoting the botanical name for every plant and flower he saw!). Bill brought his quick wit and good humor to a variety of sales positions, eventually working in the waste water treatment industry. Regardless of the job, it was Bill's easy going demeanor and humor that made people want to be around him.
Bill's first love was his family. He proudly watched his daughter, Megan, and son, Kyle excel in many of their sporting or school activities. His home office was full of every team picture, award and trophy his kids received. They were truly the light of Bill's life.
In addition to his wife, Leslie, daughter, Megan (20) and son, Kyle (16), Bill is survived by his mother, Ethel Petty; and brother Loren Petty of Lacey; Inlaws: Jim and Charlotte Spooner, Laura and Joe Bales, Steve Spooner, Scott Spooner, Becky Spooner; many loving aunts, uncles and cousins as well as a large group of loving and caring friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, Larry Petty.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. Brendan's Catholic Church, Bothell, Washington on Friday, January 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill's name to Swedish Cancer Institute.
We love and will forever miss our husband, father, son, brother and friend. Rest in peace Bill.

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

Published by The Olympian on Jan. 22, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for William Petty

6 Entries

Cindy Nolan

January 25, 2009

Leslie...I am so sorry that Bill left this world way too soon. When I think of him it puts a smile on my face because he always had a smile for me and everyone.
I am sure he is in heaven giving Barb a bad time because you know she is still probably smoking her viceroys.
Lots of love to you and family.
Cindy Nolan

Gwen Gabriel

January 22, 2009

I will always remember Bill walking into our facility with a big smile on his face to support Kyle with his baseball training sessions. I remember all of our talks we had sitting there on the couch at the facility while catching up with his health updates. I will never forget his big smile, his wonderful sense of humor, his friendship and his presence at Rijo Athletics where he sat with his crossword puzzle book every week. You will be deeply missed by all of us there. My condolences to the Petty Family and all those that loved Bill. I will keep you in my prayers.

God Bless,
Gwen

Judi Maurer Buller

January 22, 2009

Although I haven't seen Bill since our 20-year high school reunion, I was saddened to read of his passing. Bill was one of my favorite people in junior high and high school, always ready with his sly grin and a wink. He discovered that I blush easily when he once made the comment, “French horn players make the best kissers,” and ever after, during full orchestra rehearsal, whenever I'd look up from my music (he was directly in my line of sight from the violin section), he'd put his mouthpiece to his lips and raise his eyebrows, and I could feel myself turning beet red.
My sincere condolences to your family, and to all who loved Bill.

Mark Gerry

January 22, 2009

Ethel and Loren. I am saddened to learn the loss of your son and brother. Know that you are in our prayers. I have the fondest memories of Bill when we swam together.

Ken Struckmeyer

January 22, 2009

I received the note this morning about Bill's passing. He was a student of mine at WSU. Big guy who I could never get to row on the Crew. He insisted that I call him Billy Eddy Petty.

Condolences to all of his family and friends.

Charles Youngblood

January 22, 2009

Les, I was so saddened to hear of Bill's passing, my sister Deb let me know today. I have many fond memories of Bill and our times at Wazzu. I still quote Bill to my kids and nieces and nephews every time we have tuna fish. "You know, I know a lot of people who can tune a piano, but I don't know anyone who can tune a fish." Take care and hang in there, Love Charlie Youngblood

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results