Bill was born on June 19, 1956 in Landes De Bussac, France to James and Carole DeBauche, who were stationed in France at the time. He grew up in Wisconsin, spending the majority of his childhood in Wausau, Wisconsin. Throughout his childhood, Bill was actively involved in Boy Scouts, achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from D.C. Everest High School, where he proudly attended class reunions in recent years. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School. Bill practiced law for over 40 years and was a well respected and highly regarded attorney in Kansas City. He served as a professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, teaching a class in construction law for over 25 years.
Bill was highly intelligent and always thoughtful and selfless. He was loved by many and his kindness and generosity touched the lives of those who knew him. He was an avid reader and music lover, compiling a meaningful collection of books and music over the course of his life. He was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Milwaukee Brewers. He was actively involved in the Wisconsin Alumni Association, Kansas City Chapter, including serving as its president for several years.
Bill is survived by his two children, James and Sarah, his significant other Cynthia, his parents James and Carole, and his siblings, Mary, Robert, and John. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Gracie.
A visitation and rosary for Bill will occur Friday, March 18, 2022 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131. A funeral mass will occur Saturday, March 19, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Ann Catholic Church, 7231 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been set up with the Wisconsin Alumni Association, Kansas City Chapter. Gifts may be made in Bill’s name at: https://secure.supportuw.org/give/?id=a79b1ee9-305e-45d2-8b2c-ef7a6c5e5a75.
