William L. Fackler, 86, who was known as “Bill” or “Tuffy” to friends, died July 31, 2009.
His funeral was Aug. 5 at the Potter Funeral Chapel in Emmett, Idaho. Pastor Mike Cross, his son-in-law, officiated. Burial was at the Emmett Cemetery. There was a gathering to celebrate his legacy for family and friends after the service at the cemetery at the home of David Fackler.
Bill was born on Sept. 30, 1923, at Emmett to William and Elizabeth Fackler. He married the love of his life, Betty Jean Rolland. They celebrated 65 years of marriage.
His lifelong dream to own and work a farm and ranch was fulfilled in 1965 when they moved their family from downtown Emmett to the farm on Lowe Bluff Road. This hardworking husband and father also enjoyed and loved the outdoors while hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, skating and camping. He did not miss many opening days for fishing and hunting.
His love for Betty and music turned into their “dance for life.” When he took her hand they fell into step as one, his family said.
That dance furthered with their love for travel, starting in Germany and the surrounding countries to the introduction of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. A new love of Mexico was born and many friends turned into extended family as they would visit three to four times a year for a total of 49 trips.
Bill served in the U.S. Army Air Force division of the military as a surgical tech from 1942 to 1945. He worked most of his life in the lumber industry, retiring after 41 years.
A man of strength and quietness exuded kindness with an enormous giving spirit, many were recipients of “gifts” just because he appreciated all he met and shared life with, his family said.
He surrounded himself with mementos and enjoyed extending the joy of life he experienced.
Survivors include eight children and their spouses, David of Emmett, Sandy and Mike Cross of Baker City, Tim and Eve Fackler of Boise, Vicky and Mike Masaitis of Baker City, Cindy Fackler of Phoenix, Ariz., Billy Fackler of Emmett, Pam Wirth of Emmett and Teresa and Wade Hubbard of Oklahoma; 45 grandchildren; 57 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law, Delbert and Evelyn Fackler of Quartzsite, Ariz.; and sisters, Beatrice “Hazel” Richardson of Salt Lake City and Pearl and her husband, Gene, Rowe, also of Quartzsite.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Judy Huskey; two brothers and two sisters.
The family expressed gratitude for the love and support from friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to World Vision, P.O. Box 9716, Federal Way, Wash. 98063-9716 or to the Baker Valley Church of Christ, P.O. Box 301, Baker City, OR 97814.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon August 12, 2009
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor
