William “Bill” J. Loomis, a devoted husband, proud Air Force veteran, and steadfast warrior, passed away on December 28, 2024, in Mansfield, Texas, at the age of 72, with his loving wife, Sandi, by his side.
For six years, Bill battled cancer with remarkable determination and courage, inspiring everyone who knew him. Despite the immense challenges, he remained a source of quiet strength and inspiration to those who knew and loved him.
Born on July 5, 1952, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Dorman and Betty (Griswold) Loomis Thurston, Bill was raised with a strong sense of duty, honor, and compassion. His father, Dorman, having served as a B17 ball turret gunner during World War II, shared stories of significant battles that ignited Bill’s lifelong passion for military history.
In 1970, Bill graduated from Memorial High School in Eau Claire. He attended the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and worked for the local school district. During his youth, he cherished moments spent with his grandparents and Uncle Bob at the Loomis Farm in Mondovi. He especially enjoyed time with his Grandpa George’s steam engines and was proud to still own one of the whistles.
Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force in November 1971, beginning his training at Lackland Air Force Base. He was subsequently assigned to Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas, where he served two tours in Vietnam with the Strategic Air Command (SAC). Bill was among the last service members to leave Vietnam when the United States withdrew.
While serving in the Air Force, Bill began attending classes at Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth. After his honorable discharge in November 1975, he continued his studies and graduated from TCU in 1977 as a Fighting Horned Frog. Bill accepted a position with General Dynamics Aerospace in Fort Worth when offered just a few weeks later, contributing to the F-16 program. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as Procurement Manager in the European Program Office in January 1980 as he moved to Belgium to support the NATO program. In 1984, he relocated to the Netherlands F-16 office, where he was promoted to Director of Netherlands Operations the following year. In 1987, Bill and Sandi moved to Brussels, Belgium, where he was appointed European Director for the International F-16 program. During his tenure overseas, he witnessed the transition of General Dynamics’ Tactical Military Aircraft business to Lockheed Corporation in 1993. He played a pivotal role in global expansion initiatives, support programs, and the development of various facets of the F-16, a fighter jet he held in high regard.
After 20 years of committed service to the F-16 program and Lockheed Martin in Europe, Bill returned to Fort Worth in the fall of 2000, having been instrumental in closing the European office. He continued to support the overseas programs as part of the corporate office of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth. Bill retired after 36 years of unwavering service in July 2013.
Bill and Sandi met through mutual friends while she was on vacation in Europe in 1983. They exchanged vows in December 1985, later years he would proclaim they had a “20-year honeymoon” by exploring the capitals of Europe. Together, they delighted in traveling and discovering castles, WWI and WW2 military sites, museums, festivals, learning the customs of many countries, and the charm of antique markets older than the United States. They shared 39 cherished years of marriage, building a life full of love, laughter, and enduring memories.
During his 20 years in Europe, Bill bore witness to numerous historical events. Notably, he was honored as the first Vietnam veteran to place a memorial wreath on behalf of the American community at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Another particularly memorable moment occurred in November 1989, when Bill was present in Berlin to personally chip away a piece of the Berlin Wall as it fell, symbolizing a significant historical event.
In the 1990s, Bill dedicated himself to coaching Little League Baseball in Belgium. Under his guidance, his senior boys’ teams won the European Championship in 1998 in Belgium and in 1999 in Brzeg, Poland, earning the opportunity to compete in the Little League World Series in the United States. These achievements were significant highlights for Bill, his fellow coaches, and the families involved, many who today are coaching the next generation and have remained in touch with “Coach Loomis”. After returning to the United States, Bill continued to support Little League programs and never failed to watch the World Series, maintaining his passion for youth baseball throughout his life. His love for baseball extended to Major League Baseball, particularly his beloved Texas Rangers. Although his health prevented him from attending games in person during their victorious 2023 World Series run, he passionately cheered them on from home. Having previously enjoyed front-row seats during their earlier attempts, Bill was thrilled by their ultimate victory. He proudly wore his Rangers cap to chemotherapy sessions, symbolizing his unwavering support and joy in their success.
Bill had a profound passion for researching his family history. He delighted in discovering the stories of generations past, aiming to preserve their legacy for those to come. He was particularly intrigued by his early colonial and UK roots, as well as his extensive Norwegian heritage. Together, Bill and Sandi uncovered rich histories and connections that shaped his understanding of his ancestry. He was very supportive of Sandi and her work in research and together they documented every major milestone uncovered.
Bill shared a unique bond with his twin sister, Sandy (Kevin) Larsen of Lakeville, MN. Although life led them on different paths, their connection as twins remained a significant part of his story. Sandy, along with her husband Kevin, fondly remembers Bill for his resilience, his service to his country, their many youthful memories, and their shared support of the Green Bay Packers—a passion that brought them joy and camaraderie over the years.
He is also remembered by his wife’s siblings for his love, humor and family visits : Linda Puffer of Seattle, WA; Evelyn Campbell of Mansfield, TX; Karen (Jeff) Brooke of Fair Play, SC; Kathy (Tom P.) Gray of Fair Play, SC; Dave (Connie) Tofte of Williston, ND; Dan Silva of Riverbank, CA; and John (Lily) Jamroz of Somerset, TX.
Bill was a beloved uncle to Jeremy (Ambar) Larsen of Farmington, MN; Jenny (Tim) Mathiesen of Fergus Falls, MN; Chad (Stephanie) Larsen of Apple Valley, MN; Ursula McManus of San Francisco, CA; Michael McManus of Seattle, WA; Ben (Sarah) Campbell of Lithia, FL; Camille Pratt of Anderson, SC; Michael (Edie) Tofte and Mikaela (Garrett) Rehak, both of Williston, ND. He was also a cherished great-uncle to 14 great-nieces and great-nephews.
Bill Loomis is survived by his wife Sandi (Tweedie) Loomis and his sister Sandy (Loomis) Larsen and their respective families. He is also remembered fondly by the multitude of cousins, friends and colleagues who are both in the USA and around the world. It should also be noted he is missed by Bella, Bubba and especially little Shelby his feline companions. Thank you to all his caregivers, you know he loved you all.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, Dorman Loomis; his mother, Betty (Griswold) Loomis Thurston; his paternal grandparents, George and Anna Loomis; his maternal grandparents, Jay Griswold and Myrle (Kelly) Griswold Matthews; his uncle, Robert Loomis.
In lieu of flowers, family would appreciate donations to the Wounded Warrior Foundation, or any veterans organization of your choice. Or in honor of Mr. Loomis, who loved animals, any animal shelter of your choice.
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