Charles William "Bill" Willard

Charles William Willard, lovingly known as Bill, age 99, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, in Preston, Idaho. Bill was born on May 20, 1926, in Magna, Utah, to Charles Samuel Willard and Anna Alice Carter. He married the love of his life, Cleola Behunin, on April 24, 1947, and their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they built a legacy of love, service, and faith.

At just 17, Bill answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served with honor in the Pacific Theater as a bombardier on a PB4Y-2the Navy’s version of the B-24 airplane. Later, he was called out of the reserves to serve aboard the USS Valley Forge during the Korean War. Bill was a true patriot and hero who loved his country deeply.

One of Bill’s lifelong passions was thoroughbred horses. He worked as both a jockey and a racehorse trainer for most of his adult life, dedicating countless hours to the animals he loved. Another great joy of his life was temple service. In 1989, Bill and Cleola served a mission at the Santiago Chile Temple, and temple work became a treasured calling. Even in his later years, while living in Arizona in 2018 and 2019, Bill faithfully attended the Gilbert Temple four days a week, often serving 10 hours a day.

Above all, Bill loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took an active role in the lives of his children and posterity. He is survived by his children: David (Peggy) Willard of Preston, Idaho; daughter-in-law Cindy [Paul] Willard of Grand Junction, Colorado; SueAnn Troxel of Johnson City, Tennessee; and Roger (Laura) Willard of Soda Springs, Idaho. He leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren, and 30 great-great-grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cleola; two sons, Bart and Paul; and four of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill Willard loved his God, his family, and his country. His life was a testament to faith, devotion, and service, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and the greatest hugs that blessed our lives and that will bless generations to come.

Funeral, Military Rites and Interment services will be held in Grand Junction, Colorado on October 11, 2025. The times and place to be determined.