William Joseph Humbert

William “Bill” Humbert, 68, passed away on June 27, 2013 at his home in Gresham, Oregon, just 2 weeks after his birthday. He was born on June 10, 1945 in Portland, Oregon to parents Joseph and Helen Humbert. The family moved back to Minnesota a couple of times, but finally settled back Portland in Happy Valley. Bill graduated from Clackamas High School and then joined the U.S. Air Force where he served his country as a Ballistic Missile Technician. Bill later worked at Western Electric and DM Excavating. While working, he attended Portland State University as a math major. There he met Joanie (Wales) and they were married on October 12, 1974.

Bill spent most of his life serving as a firefighter. He started with District 10 and then with the Portland Fire Bureau. He called it the best job he ever had and spent many years supporting the Union and other firefighters. Bill was a friend to everyone, a great cook, a mentor to many, and very active in politics. He was always there for his many friends and fellow firefighters who were battling cancer. In 1983, Bill had his first diagnosis of cancer. It reoccurred in 2005 and the last time in March of this year. Bill is survived by his wife, Joanie of Gresham, OR; brother Eugene (Rose) Humbert of Pahrump, Nevada, sister Lucille (Mel) Brooks of Sandy, OR; 8 nieces and nephews, as well as many other cherished family members, longtime friends, neighbors, and family of firefighters. He was preceded in death by his brother, Phillip, and his sister-in-law Penny. Bill will be laid to rest privately at Willamette National Cemetery with military honors. A public memorial service with honors by the Portland Fire Department will be held on Friday July 19 at 1:00pm at Good Shepherd Community Church. Arrangements by Bateman Carroll Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Bill’s honor to a charity of your choice.