This is Mary grant Gran. I graduated from high school with Bill. Was thinking about him today and discovered he had passed away. I don’t know if anyone will get this, but I’m sending a hug and a smile to those who loved him. I was one of them. Such a bright and gifted writer and personality! In February 1981 he wrote an article for the Iowa State daily newspaper. He referenced my high school graduation speech. I sent the clipping to my nephew who is graduating this spring in Colorado. Rest in peace, Bill! You are remembered fondly.

To the Rusk Family,
I was very sorry to learn of Bill's passing. I knew him at Iowa State from the Lambda Chi fraternity. He was a great writer and truly nice person. Again I am sorry for your loss.

My belated sympathy to Bill's family and friends. I was shocked and saddened to learn of Bill's passing. I've known Bill and Dick and the family since they first moved to Ames in the late sixties, and I roomed with Bill his senior year of college. He was a great friend and roommate; I can picture him sitting and pondering what to write for his "Behind the 8-Ball" column for the ISU daily. A very creative guy, he even invented a game, "Duello" as a sort of 3-D version of "Risk". He was very easy to be around, and even though I'd lost track of him for several years, I'm really going to miss him.

It's been years, but I always enjoyed your 'alternative view' of this universe Bill (or SOME universe, somewhere) Carry on brother.

Barb and family,

My belated heartfelt sympathies to you all on Bill's recent passing.

When we talked at MGMC's primetime program, it was so hard to see you in so much stress and turmoil when you told me Bill moved home and was now in hospice.

Yes, Ames' hospice house is a blessing for our community and the state of Iowa.

Very dedicated employees there helping the family and patient during this crossover time.

I can see Carl welcoming Bill with his special flower arrangement of ducks and cat tails in it. :)

I got behind in getting this off to you, but my thoughts and prayers go out to you for I learned so much from you and Carol at Ames garden club meetings and flower shows.

I hope this poem will comfort you Barb. hugs/kisses


I’M FREE AT LAST
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,
I’m following the path God laid for me.
I took his hand when I heard him call
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that place at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Ah yes, these things, I too, will miss.
Be not burdened with the times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief;
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, he set me free.
Author Unknown

The memories are numerous and fondly recalled. You're a great addition to the talent in heaven.

Bill, if only I could read your wonderful prose describing the paradise that surrounds you. I enjoyed your gift of writing; rest in peace!

Bill you were the best big brother I could have asked for, it is an honor to call you my brother

Bill, may your kindness and love of the writing live on forever.

Bill was a fraternity brother of mine at Iowa State. Bill was always a fun guy to spend time with, he was older them me by a few years but always took the time to get to know us younger people in the house.

My heart goes out to the family, may fond memories soon fill your sadness of Bill's passing.

Bill was such a great energy, friend and classmate...I remember our days together at Roosevelt--especially our creative writing efforts...Bill had an amazing sense of humor--a fantastic writer and well-liked by all...I smile as I recall our days at Roosevelt, Central and Ames High...our lives have been enriched by having known him!

Barb and family,
We send our comfort, strength and sympathy at this difficult time.

Barb, Our hearts go out to you and your family at this time of loss. We send our love and sympathy.