HODGES, Bill

Bill Hodges, 79, of Phoenix, AZ passed away on June 12, 2007. Bill was born February 8, 1928 in Belgrade, Nebraska. He met the love of his life, Delores Klassen while attending high school. After marriage, they moved to Fairbanks, Alaska where upon arrival Bill held a variety of jobs. In 1952 he purchased Pioneer Wells Water Company which he operated for twenty years while they raised their children in Fairbanks. In 1972, they moved back to Nebraska to be near family. In 1976 they moved with his family to Phoenix to be closer to his mother. Bill loved playing pinochle and marbles with the kids, but playing with his grandchildren was the light of his life. He loved being a Grampa! Family meant everything to Bill. He was very proud of his children and their accomplishments. Much to Del's amusement, he loved to brag about what a great job he had done in raising his 6 kids. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Delores, and children: Dick and Cathy Hodges; Larry and Georgette Hodges; Kathy and Rick Watson all of Fairbanks, Alaska; Laura Hodges of Omaha, Nebraska; Patty and Jim Romero of Phoenix, Arizona and Marie and Ted Soja of Peoria, Arizona. He also leaves behind several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill will always be in our hearts and missed by everyone who loved and knew him. There will be a private family service held in Phoenix. Arrangements are being handled by The Chapel of the Chimes in Phoenix. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, any donations be made in his name to the Hospice of the Valley, 2000 West Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85015-2443. Published in The Arizona Republic on 6/15/2007.