BOMBER MEMORIAL

WILLIAM "BILL" HARTLEY ~ Class of 1956
June 27, 1936 - May 1, 2009

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Bill passed away Friday, May 1, 2009, at Kadlec Medical Center, Richland following a courageous battle with interstitial lung disease. He was born in Yakima on June 27, 1936, where he spent his early years. Bill lived in the Tri-Cities since 1948 and was a member of Columbia Community Church in Richland.

Bill graduated from Columbia High School in 1956. He earned his associate's degree from Columbia Basin College, Pasco. Before and after graduation, Bill was employed in several occupations until he found his niche working in the automobile business in management/sales for 38 years, retiring in 2001. Bill married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Beverly Barnett ('58), on December 22, 1956. They had three children: John, Julie and Jeannie.

Bill was the best husband, father and grandfather. The most important things in his life were his faith and his family. Those who knew him respected him for his compassion, integrity, sincerity and generosity. Bill was an excellent provider for his family, and he and Beverly made many sacrifices to provide their children with college educations. Bill was always there to lend a helping hand and to offer advice. The evening before Bill left us he imparted words of wisdom and blessings on each family member individually through his labored breathing. His life exemplified the true meaning of giving, loving, and sacrifice. His optimistic outlook throughout his life, even during his illness, was an inspiration to us all. Up to the end he said, 'I feel great ... I just can't breathe.' Bill had high hopes to come home, but was called to his heavenly home instead.

Bill is survived by his wife Beverly; daughter Julie (Robert) Grazian and their two children Daniel and Natalie Grazian of Coronado, CA; daughter Jeannie (Brad) Friehauf and their two children Matthew and David Friehauf of Kennewick. He is also survived by sister-in-law Beth (Fred) Vickstrom of Richland; brother-in-law George ('63) (Peg) Barnett of Tucson, AZ; brother-in-law Bob ('67) (Colleen) Barnett of Richland; brother-in-law Charles ('69) (Ronne) Barnett of Benton City; brother-in-law Jim ('80) (Lorraine) Barnett of Sierra Vista, AZ; brother-in-law Don Hollenbaugh of Prescott, WA; and step sister Millie (Tom) Kidwell of Pasco. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his son John Hartley who passed away in 1996, his parents John and Jeanette Hartley, and his sister Carole Hollenbaugh.

Viewing will be Friday, May 8, from 6pm to 8pm at Einan's Funeral Home. A celebration of Bill's life will be held Saturday, May 9, at 2pm at Columbia Community Church, 150 Gage Blvd., Richland. Graveside services will follow at 5pm at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 915 Bypass Highway, Richland. The family invites you to sign their Einan's online Guest Book

Memorial contributions in Bill Hartley's name may be made to Columbia Community Church, 150 Gage Blvd., Richland, WA 99352.

Published in Tri-City Herald on 5/6/200