He was born and grew up in Hannibal, MO. Graduated from Hannibal High School and attended Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. He attended Arch United Methodist Church. He served in the Naval Reserve.
After moving to Kansas City, MO, he graduated from Kansas City Regional Police Academy thus beginning a career spanning over 25 years with the Kansas City Missouri Police Department.
Bill married Lana Smith in 1972. They enjoyed traveling, family, friends and the Royals for over 53 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents Bill Sr. and Roberta, brother Robert and his beloved daughter Karen. Survived by wife Lana, daughter Erika Vedder (Chris), granddaughters Kara Wiggins, Nicole Wiggins, Corinne Vedder, Casey Vedder, great-grandson Koen Flanagan, niece Gretchen Swanson and nephew Adam Swanson.
He had a deep love and compassion for animals, especially dogs. Donations may be made in his honor to the Liberty Animal Shelter, Liberty, MO.
A graveside service will be held at Mount Moriah Cemetery South, located at 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, on January 20, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.
