William
“Bill” Richard Cleeland, Sr., 79, of Estes Park entered into
heaven on April 1, 2024 after bravely battling several serious
illnesses. He was surrounded by his family and their love at a
Longmont, Colorado hospital.
Bill
was born on August 22, 1944, to Richard Cleeland and Eleanor
(McCandless) Cleeland in Butler, Pennsylvania. The family
lived also lived in Ohio before settling in Kankakee, IL.
He
attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where he met
true love and best friend, Patricia “Pat” Stage, marrying her
on September 18, 1965 in Rockford, Illinois. They were blessed
to be married for more than 58 years, and had two children,
Leah and William Jr.
After
serving in the Army Reserves, he joined aerospace and
machining business Precision Masters, Inc. in 1968. In 1980,
he became co-owner and President until selling the company and
retiring in 2015. Despite being retired, he enjoyed
contracting part-time for Precision Masters until early 2024.
Bill
loved the life he created in Colorado with his wife, children,
and Boston Terriers. He was a kind and generous man who
enjoyed hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, kayaking, and
taking long walks with his dogs. He loved a good meal out with
his family, but also made the world’s best spaghetti. A devout
Lutheran, his strong faith included a belief in eternal life
through Jesus Christ and that our best days are yet to come.
He was always optimistic and made friends wherever he went –
especially in Estes Park, the last community he called home.
Bill
is survived by his wife, daughter, son, grandpup Charlie, and
many dear relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by
his parents and pups Bart, Jake, Teddy, and Gus. Most
recently, he lost his beloved younger brother Mac in January
who was another courageous fighter against tough odds.
There
will be a private Celebration of Life held in Estes Park at a
later date.
