NORRED, William John (Bill)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 08/10/2004 William John Norred (Bill to his friends and Billy to his family) died at his home in Holbrook Sunday, Aug. 1, 2004. In Holbrook, Bill will be remembered most for his spirit of service and generosity, his innate affinity with animals, his friendliness with everyone, and his green thumb and love of gardening. Although Bill suffered from many ailments and was disabled from injuries, he spent most of his time and energy helping others when he could. Bill believed that work, done in a spirit of service, was the highest form of worship and praise of God. If someone needed help cleaning up a yard, putting up a shed, planning a garden or orchard, Bill's sweat and expertise were there to help. If someone needed him to watch over their home, garden and animals while they were away, Bill was there to help. If someone needed some money for groceries, Bill was there to help, even if he went without himself. He was the ultimate volunteer as well, always looking for projects, such as helping with a local experimental farm and helping with Boy Scouts projects. In spite of the many tests and difficulties he experienced in life, Bill had a zest for living that was beautiful to behold. He loved games, such as cards and Risk, Chess and Checkers. He was a master Trivia player. Anyone in a Trivia match wanted Bill on their team. However, more than anything, he loved talking with people, hearing their stories, and telling his stories. Bill had a lot of wonderful stories about his life and experiences. To honor a few of these career experiences, he was a Vietnam Veteran; a rancher (a family enterprise), he worked in television and filming; started a therapeutic horseback riding school for handicapped children (a family enterprise), worked with the homeless and disabled veterans in San Francisco for over 10 years. Bill also had very fond memories of living in Apache Junction, as a young boy and participating in the family business. They had a Dude Ranch and provided guided horseback trips and outdoor adventures through the Superstition Mountains. Bill packed a lot of life into his 49 years. Bill will be sorely missed by both friends and family. He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Stubblefield; grandson Sabastien Stubblefield; father Buck Norred; mother Jeannie Nielsen; and sisters, Jeannie Lahde, Retta Moore, and Debbie Butts.