Bill was born on December 4, 1930, at St. John’s Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota, to Dougal W. Tietgens and Edna Olson Tietgens. He graduated from Fargo High School in 1948 and demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit early in life by starting his own dry-cleaning business at the age of 19.
On November 2, 1951, Bill married the love of his life, Carol Ann Vold. Their marriage was blessed with a family they cherished together for many years.
From 1952 to 1954, Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army. Stationed in Germany, he attained the rank of Corporal. Following his military service, he attended Dakota Business College for one year under the GI Bill.
Bill’s professional career included management positions with Equifax and Business Men’s Assurance (BMA) in Amarillo, Texas. He was respected for his strong work ethic, integrity, and dedication throughout his career.
Retirement did not slow Bill down. He devoted countless hours volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Hospice, and the VA Hospital, always looking for ways to serve others. His Christian faith was the foundation of his life, and he was a faithful member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
Bill enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved spending time on the golf course, playing games, and trying his luck at the casino. Family and friends knew that if you managed to beat Bill at a game, he would quickly suggest “best two out of three” or “five out of seven”—determined to keep playing until he came out the winner. His competitive spirit, sense of humor, and love of friendly competition created countless cherished memories.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Tietgens; his sons, William B. (Bill) Tietgens Jr. and Scott B. Tietgens; his sister, Gloria Sladek; and his brothers, Clayton Tietgens and Ed Tietgens.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Paula J. Cole and husband David; his daughters-in-law, Janis Tietgens and Audrey Tietgens; his grandchildren, Kati Howard and husband Trey, Amanda Stuke and husband Paul, Clifton Tietgens and wife Candace, Jenna Brister and husband Michael, and Whitney Mueller and husband Jeff; as well as nine treasured great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took the time to visit Bill. He truly loved having company and treasured every visit. They also wish to express their sincere appreciation to the compassionate caregivers of BSA Hospice and the staff at Bristol Park for the loving care and kindness they provided.
In keeping with Bill’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 3500 Bowie Street, Amarillo, Texas 79109.
Bill will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his dedication to family, his service to others, his competitive spirit, and the laughter he brought to those who knew and loved him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched.
