Bill will indeed be missed.  Though beset by physical handicaps, Bill was one of the most upbeat and lighthearted people in our community.  The sound of his table saw and whine of his drill press was the signal for neighbors to wander over to the Blades' garage for jokes, funny stories, and lots of laughter with Bill at the center of it all.

DEAR CAROL, I WAS SO SORRY TO LEARN OF SCAR'S PASSING.  I KNOW HE WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE WHO EVER HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF KNOWING HIM.  YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS.  MAY YOUR WONDERFUL MEMORIES HELP YOU THROUGH THIS SAD TIME.  GOD BLESS, CAROLE (CASINO) LEE - DAYTONA BEACH

I worked in the same division with Bill at NSA for about seven years. I liked Bill's smile from the moment I met him. His wry humor and constant up-beat nature made him fun to be around. When it came to knowing the specifics of his job, Bill had the in-depth knowledge I sought plus good alternatives. There was one time I feared for Bill's life. We were playing an NSA softball game when Bill became unconscious. I think he was struck by a hit ball square in the chest and it knocked the wind out of him. Someone trying to help him started CPR--without listening for a heart beat. We got that stopped pronto. Bill later said that he was very glad that guy stopped pushing on his chest. Sadly I didn't see Bill but once after that assignment. I believe it was during an award ceremony late in our careers. We reminisced for awhile. Bill brought back many memories of the old days and I was glad to see he still had his joyful personality and quick wit. Bill must have been a trip to live with! He is someone I will always remember. Bill was a positive influence in my life. Our sincere sympathy to the Blades' family.

I wish every family could have an "Uncle Will" - that special person who makes you happy without effort. The type of man you will always find at the center of his family.  A true role model for every man, husband and father. His uplifting personality, humor and infectious laughter were his gifts to all. Our deepest sympathy, prayers and love go out to Aunt Carol, Donna, Lorrie, Sherri, Stacy and their families. We will miss him, but never forget him!

Dear Brother,

Did you ever know that you were my hereo?

Our family was so proud of your many accomplishments.  

When I sang in the jr choir I'll never forget the faces that you made at me - I could hardly keep from laughing.  When I started jr. high, you took me to the bus stop and when the "dirty dozen gang" threatened you would never see me again -you told them BEWARE OF BIG BROTHER! 

I love you and will greatly miss you.
With love, your sister Carolyn.

Carol, I just learned of Bill's death and I am just so sorry!  Bill was a very special person and I am so sad to hear of his death.  He was such a good friend to me -- I will miss him.

"Peace is the elusive kingdom of the soul which God alone in his love does hold" (unknown)

Aunt Carol & family:  I pray that you will be wrapped in God's peace in these difficult days ahead. Uncle Billy had parents that loved him, a devoted wife, and children, grandchildren and finally great grandchildren that he was proud of. 
He dealt with major health issues but also had a blessed life in many ways.  His picture is how I always remember him - with a big smile.

I will miss you Uncle Will.  The memories that I have of you are all smiles and laughter.  I am glad that I had you in my life.  To your family I am deeply sorry for your loss but am glad that he was a loving part of your life and that he will be watching over everyone of you.  Keep the memories close to your heart.  I know that I will.

With love,

Renee Cole

Stacy.......I'm so sorry for your loss.  I know that losing your Dad really just sucks!  My deepest sympathies to You and Sam, Your Mom and your sisters and their families!  Love to all from Rita and all the Gordon's

My condolences to the family. Although at NSA I did not have daily contact with Bill, I always thought of him as a real professional in his field. Throughout his entire career at NSA, Bill strived to insure that we produced and fielded the secure communications systems so vital to our Nations security. I know that Bill will surely be missed among family, all his friends, and his workplace acquaintances.
Irv Boehm

To my father:  We gained so much from you. we are the people we are today because of you!  I am happy that you hurt no longer, however, it will be hard to get over the pain of losing you in our lives.  Always, always in my heart Dad.  I love you!

I too worked with Bill. He always brightened my day. But, he knew his business & was a true professional. May the Peace of God surround & comfort your Family.

Dear Carol and family,

I had the pleasure of working with Bill for a number of years. Great guy to work with and to be around. Always had a comment or two to cheer you up or get you back on track.

I often think of Bill when we drive through Hillsboro and pass "Blades Road". 

We will keep Bill and all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

Mike and Mary Redgraves

I also worked with Bill at NSA.  I'll always remember him as a really great guy with a wry sense of humor who always kept everyone smiling.

         - Dan Knauf

Bill was a LONG-time friend.  We met when we were in high school - Bill at City and me at Poly.  We shared many good times together and had many, many laughs.  Our friendship has been a lasting one, and I have lots of good memories of times gone by.  I'll miss my conversations with him, his humor and his friendship.  To know Bill was to love him.  Donna and I feel a loving peace has come to Bill knowing that he is now home.  Carol, know that you and your family are in our prayers.

Carol and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Bill was a wonderful guy that made a huge impact on many people.  He was a great colleague and friend-Bill was a very special person. Sincerely, John Capece

Carol and family, so sorry to hear about Bill what a great fun guy.  Keep the faith!

Joyce & John Knott

Carole and family,
It is with our deepest sympathy for you on the loss of Bill!  Bill and I go way back through our work and travels together.  We formed a great friendship with you both and always enjoyed our gettogethers.  He will be missed for sure!
Dotty and Bill Dodge

Wow! What a shock to hear this news about Bill. I can't think of a better person and dedicated employee of the National Security Agency. I worked with Bill for many decades at the Agency; he was one of a kind, always involved in so many pursuits of our agency's missions. On the social side Bill was the best. Again, always involved and made those events so special. 
It saddens me to hear of his passing. I could go on for ever about Bill; he was that kind of guy. Truly, "one of the guys", who you wanted to be around. 
Bill, God bless you and I know you are in a special place.  
Carol and family, please accept my deepest sympathy; I will never forget Bill.

My memories of Will Blades are of a man who loved his wife and always put family first. He was passionate about life. He loved sports, through great parties, and made us all laugh harder! 

Will Blades devoted his entire career to the American people and his contribution to the security of this nation makes him a "True American Hero"

And my world is a better place because I knew him!

Lorrie............  I'm sorry my friend for your loss.  Though I did not know your father very well, I know what a wonderful person he created in you.........  love to you, your sisters, your mom and all the kids........  Linda Baker

Donna and family, our deepest sympathy go out  to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. He will be dearly missed. God Bless you all. love debbie and keith karwacki

Carol, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, we were so sad to hear about Bill.  Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. I know that Bill will surely be missed. 

Sharon and Hal Lightcap

Out of sight but never forgotten (the Mayor of the Villages of Old Landing), a great guy, who could always create a smile.  We loved him deeply.
Joe & Joanie

  Our sympathy and warmest thoughts are with you Carol, Donna, Lorrie, Sherri   Stacy and families. Memories nourish the heart and Bill and I have gained so many over the years with you all.  Thank you!

OBITUARY

Willard Robert Blades Jr.

May 11, 1936 – August 15, 2012

Schimunek Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services