William Paul Orris

It cannot ever be fully told, because like rabbit holes or tree branches that twist and turn, it will continue on forever in the hearts of those who saw a part of it; the life and times of William Paul Orris.

Dad was a story-teller himself, so while this brief recollection may serve as an introduction, my guess is that at some point you will add to the tale with remembrances of your own, as would be welcomed by Bill himself, as you are each a tree in his forest.

A memorial service will be held for William Paul Orris at 2:00pm Sunday, March 23, 2025 at the Weerts Funeral Home Davenport, IA. Please share memories with the family at www.weertsfh.com.

The beginning? He was born in 1942 at a young age, at zero as he recalled, but grew quickly into a champion of activity. As a Boy Scout, he would add extra rocks to his backpack on hikes and campouts to challenge himself. In his less Boy Scout moments, he and a friend would light tumbleweeds on fire and launch them off a homemade catapult across the desert highway.

His family life included his mom and dad, Emma and Joe Orris, and his baby sister, Janet. He enjoyed his life in California in the early years. He left to find his vocation in life and attended Bethany College in Minneapolis. After graduating and choosing to become a machinist, he moved to Rockford, Illinois, where he began his apprenticeships; first in machining, then in husbanding.

Oh yes, the love of his life awaited him there. She was a school teacher, and after working together leading the youth program at church, they courted, and then married in 1966. Myrna was the better half of the man, who he gratefully acknowledged as a gift from God. Together they worked and worshiped and grew a family that included three children, and occasionally a pet.

His faith has always been a guiding force in his life. He trusted God with his life and knew well the hope of the resurrection. He served in many ways in churches; as deacon, elder, and his favorite, as a Bible teacher. His love of God in the scriptures guided him throughout his life and he enjoyed thinking deeply about the mysteries of God, and often pondered the strangeness of life. Even this last year, his journals reflect not a man questioning God, but himself, asking for greater repentance and an ever more pure faith and heart.

He was a wonderful father to three children; Marilyn, Allen and Steven. He brought joy to life in playing outdoors games in the yard, like frisbee and of course badminton with a water hazard required…

What some called fishing, dad called drowning worms, perhaps because the jibber-jabber of children made the excursions less successful. Nevertheless, he would lead the charge on hikes into the woods, making snowball fights and water fights mandatory, and demonstrated proper nap taking techniques to the kids. His wisdom and love, coupled with camping and Uno skills left an indelible mark.

He started several businesses. Collected many educational certificates and professional endorsements. Was a valued and sought after expert and coworker in many workplaces. (The “bun-length” hot-dog? Yup…he helped that happen.)

His grandchildren, pride and joy: Peter, Mikaela, Jonah, Michaella, Heidi, Caleb (Lilliana), Hannah, Sarah, Abba, Jacob and Mattaeh.

He left the bonds of earth on March 9th, forever changing both sides of the veil, although undoubtedly happier than even he could have imagined.

Missing him in this life but grateful for his time with us include his wife Myrna, his sister Janet (Bill), his two sister-in laws Marilyn and Joyce, children Marilyn (Tim), Allen (Renee), and Steven (Lisa).

He was recently meditating on Colossians 3: “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” And so the story goes on…

Bill, our husband, father, grandfather and friend, good-bye…for now…