BISHOP, William Henry, Sr.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ October 8, 2010 William Henry Bishop Sr. went to his heavenly home Aug. 26, 2010. He was born Dec. 5, 1947, in Kellogg, Idaho. He is survived by his mother, Mary Rogers; wife of 44 years, Patricia, and three sons: Thomas, William Jr. and Tobias; daughter-in-law Mandi; 10 grandchildren: Mayme, Layla, Cody, Sage, Alex, Brian, Kaden, Kodie, Talon and Novella; two great-grandchildren: Brodie and Journey; three brothers: Alva Vaughn and Clifford; three sisters: Rosemary, Katy and Marilyn and many nieces, nephews and extended family, significant others and friends that are family too. Bill was primarily raised in Payson. He attended the Kemper Military School in Missouri. He loved bull-riding and was an all around cowboy. He worked as a heavy equipment mechanic. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam war and was a true patriot. "God Bless America." Bill moved his wife and sons to Lakeside in 1977. He was a drywall contractor, trapper and instructor fly fishing teacher and fly and lure manufacturer, big game guide and renowned antler artist. His sons followed in his footsteps. He worked for the fish and wildlife service until he was disabled. Bill loved fishing and was a bass pro, an avid (addicted) archer with many Pope and Young trophies. He was labeled the coues deer headmaster. This was a man who was truly a legend. A man who blazed his own path in life. Bill was there for his family no matter what they faced in life. His support and wisdom always guided them to find the answers when needed. "God's gift, blue skies, blue waters, blue mountains ..." his opening statement on many tapes of his adventures. Bill had a special place in the mountains he called heaven. That is where he died of a sudden heart attack. He'd spent the day, hunting and filming the things he was passionate about. Though we know heaven has welcomed a very special person, "our hearts are filled with sorrow." A memorial will be held at the Chuckwagon steakhouse on Porter Mountain Road Oct. 16. Food will be available at noon with services at 2 p.m.