Bill was born on January 7, 1937 to George L. and Hattie L. (Smith) Epple in Lamar, MO. Bill was the second oldest in his family. He started his career as a farmer and worked after school for Masterson’s, then for Lawn Boy until they closed. Bill then moved to Independence, Mo. And worked for 22 years at Kenworth and Dart Truck Company until they closed in 1985, at which time Bill went back to farming until he retired. Of all of the jobs he had, farming was the one he liked most. While farming was hard work, it was rewarding too, like getting to drive the John Deere tractors.
Bill met the love of his life, Carleta E. Wiley. They wed on June 3, 1961. Bill and Carleta had two children, and three grandchildren. While proud of their children, the grandchildren were adored.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, parents, and four siblings. Bill leaves behind his daughter: Christie Dawson and husband Jeffrey, son: Phillip Epple and wife: Karen, three grandchildren: Jennifer McDaniel, Madeline Epple and Katelyn Epple, an extensive family and friends. One of Bill’s favorite sayings was, “Onward Christian Soldiers!”
Visitation will be Friday September 27, 2019 at 10:00 AM with the Funeral Service at 12:00 Noon at Floral Hills Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to: KC Hospice House 12000 Wornall Road, Kansas City, Mo. 64145 or the Charity of your Choice
