William "Bill" Albert Kidwell

William Albert Kidwell (“Bill" or “WAK”) 77, passed away December 19, 2021 in his home surrounded by the love of his family after complications from an extended illness that he fought valiantly with his gracious and spirited way for over three years. Bill, born March 5, 1944 in Tampa, Florida was son of Marian Viola Rankin Kidwell and Albert Laws Kidwell, PhD. Bill was a devoted husband to Debby, fun-loving father, community volunteer, special friend, and a charismatic hospitality leader for more than four decades.

After growing up in Tulsa, OK as an active Boy Scout with a loving family who traveled the United States and shared many adventures, Bill went to Oklahoma State University where he graduated with a BS in Hospitality Management in 1971 and was a member of Delta Tau Delta. Upon graduation, he served in the United States Air Force earning the rank of Captain and then launched a career in the Hospitality Industry.

Bill’s work spanned hotels and resorts coast to coast with well-known franchises as well as many independent hotels. His most beloved years were with MHM in Dallas, TX where he served as Senior Vice President and thrived on the friendships and success. But, over the years, he appreciated the other experiences such as working with Starwood Hotels & Resorts at its inception as well as re-inventing himself through independent senior living organizations. His mentorship to others was truly a gift that touched many lives in multiple facets of the hospitality industry. And, there are few that would deny WAK’s ability to make a profit, create customer satisfaction, and keep the employees smiling was anything less than special. He earned the Certified Hotel Administrator designation and was also recognized as General Manager of the Year in 2007 while working at the Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport.

Bill had a twinkle in his eye, a witty comment for any occasion, tackled math with a vengeance, loved to write a good limerick for many occasions, and was a strategist in both work and play. He celebrated a good game, enjoyed golf and travel, as well as all things nature and outdoors. He had a knack for landscaping, always marveled at sunsets and adored his dog and sidekick, Max as well as his extended family both near and far.

Bill’s remarkable talent in the kitchen entertained family and friends with unique recipes curated from many sources including his own creativity. For more than 12 years, Bill ran the kitchen for the “Panquake Fundraisers” at Paradise Valley United Methodist with Debby. He also led a community initiative through Rebuilding Together using his organizational and leadership skills to help members of his church support renovations for older members of the community as well as Domestic Violence Shelters. Bill was a member of Paradise Valley United Methodist Church for over 23 years and served as both a member and Chair for Missions Ministry from 2005 – 2009.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Debra Elizabeth Kidwell (Debby Blank) in Phoenix, AZ are: Children – Holly Ferguson (John) Raleigh, NC, Chris Kidwell (Melissa) Bellevue, WA, Laws Kidwell - Cox (David Cox) Cross Roads, TX and Jennifer Kidwell (Jenny) Phoenix, AZ as well as step-daughter Rebecca Nicholson (Tommy) Justin, TX. His siblings include Betty Evans (Win) Dallas, TX, Patricia Lown (David) Cave Creek, AZ, and Dr. Thomas Kidwell (Becky) Sacramento, CA. Bill has four grand-daughters, five grand-children through marriages, 16 nieces and nephews as well as seven great nieces and nephews. Additional family include his mother-in-law, Mary Elmquist – Lane (Dick Lane) Lima, OH, his sister-in laws Nichole Jablonsky (Chad) Avondale, AZ, Leisa Biddle of San Diego, CA and Julie Blank of Irvine, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marian and Albert, and brother in laws, Durell (Beaver) Blank, Michael Blank, and Tony Biddle.

A celebration of life will be held on March 5, 2022 in Phoenix, AZ. Friends and family may reach out to his wife Debby ([email protected]) for more details.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the OSU Foundation in Bill’s memory to the Memorial Fund. Checks should be made payable to the OSU Foundation and mailed to PO Box 1749 – Stillwater, OK 74076-1749 or gifts can be made online at osugiving.com. In the comments section, please note, in memory of Bill Kidwell. A scholarship will be established for the next generation of hoteliers. In addition, the family thanks Mayo Clinic (Phoenix), Bright Star Care, Senior Bridge, Hospice of the Valley, and his devoted team of caregivers, nurses, and caring friends that helped Bill enjoy time and comfort in his home.