I know everyone called him Bill or Skip, but to me he was (and always will be) Billy Coad.

When we were little kids, my brother and some other friends always played around together and Billy was always one of the pals...playing baseball, football, or whatever.

My brother reminded me the other day that one time when we were in grade school, Billy and I got into some kind of fight, and I bit Billy's ear. I don't remember that, but it's probably true. I suppose this is where Mike Tyson got the idea to do that many years later.

After grade school I didn't see Billy much, but my brother was a good friend of his, and so I kept track of what he was up to.

What I know about Billy is that he was the kind of guy everyone wishes they could have for a friend. A rare individualist and a truly great guy.

Rest in peace, Billy.

Chris Nelson (formerly of Rockford)

Condolences from Jacqueline Johnson and family

Thank you for your service to our country, and for being an all around great guy.

I met Bill in 9th grade at Wilson. He was one of those people that when you met him it was like you had known him all your life. At the time we were forming a band called the satalites.  Bill played guitar, There were five of us in this band each played different instruments. We played the talent show, we played at the wtvo dance party and each of us recieved a eight pack of coke cola. Bill was a friend for life. He will be missed by all. RIP my friend. Tony Choppi, Mesa,Arizona

Semper Fidelis - My friend...You will be missed.

Thank you for your service to our country, Marine.

What to say about Skip...father, husband, soldier, businessman, worker, friend...they all fit and he did them all well.  Skip, above all, was the best husband to one of the smartest, sweetest women I have ever known.  I always knew Skip for the shop, the cars and his love of work!!  After many a long talk, many of which could have very well solved the problems of this crazy world, I came to know him as a friend. His dedication to his work, his home, his workers and his family was complete. I remember one night in particular, on a balcony in Solvang when we had a long, long talk about family, work and commitment to life, all over a once full bottle of Grand Manier, where he told me how much he loved his life, wife and family and how he so wanted to never disappoint any of them. I am sure now that he didn't.  I remember going wine tasting and while we were enjoying the grape, Skip was savoring a cold beer, standing by his Corvette, waiting for us to move on to the next winery. He was patient and always funny.  I will miss our talks but will forever take to heart what we talked about especially when it comes to the love of family, wife, kids and grandkids. You did you life well!!!

I've been friends with Bill since first grade. Here's one memory of him.

In 1995 my dad died. When I called Bill to tell him about my dad, the first thing he said was, Don't have Carl's funeral until I get there.  My reply was, "OK, we'll wait because you're a pallbearer."

The next night he showed up at my front door, all the way from California. That's Bill Coad. True friend.

I had written a eulogy to my dad and realized I'd never be able to deliver it. I asked Bill to give it and he hesitated a bit. Kenny I don't know if I can get through it or not but I'll sure give it a try. 

He choked up a couple times but by God he got through it. The Marines had landed and I cried through the whole thing. It was the best funeral ever.

Bill stayed for several days and I hope he knows how much it meant to all of us. He went well above and beyond the call of duty. That's Bill Coad. Friend. Marine. Semper Fi.

If medals were given for friendship he'd need a bigger chest.  Bill, I'll see you when my time is up. 

Love, Kenny Nelson, Pugo.

OBITUARY

William Alfred Coad

26 February, 1946 – 28 April, 2016

Westminster Memorial Park & Mortuary

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