Bill served his country with distinction for 21 years in the United States Air Force, including time in Vietnam, and retired as a Master Sergeant. His deep respect for service and sacrifice continued long after retirement, as he played the bugle in military honors for hundreds of funerals across Missouri and Kansas—offering a steady, dignified farewell to fellow veterans and their families. After his military career, he brought the same discipline and careful attention to detail to his work as an IRS criminal investigator in Florida.
In 1978, Bill married Mary after what he described as love at first sight. He was already a proud father of five and together they blended their families with love.
Bill's interests reflected both precision and joy. He loved airplanes, especially his work maintaining C130’s, and never lost his fascination with what made them run. He shared his knowledge abroad while teaching in Saudi Arabia for Lockheed Martin. He looked forward to the Consumer Reports each month, with a particular fondness for the cars featured in its pages. He enjoyed living in Florida and referred to himself as “the reptile of the family.” He was also a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan. And to those who knew him best, he had his own small traditions—like his “5 o’clock” whiskey, always with exactly four ice cubes.
Bill gave generously of his time and resources, sponsoring many events for the American Cancer Society, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the Kokomo Mission, and causes supporting veterans. He virtually attended the Church of Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, and remained a lifetime member of the VFW, the American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans.
He is survived by his children and step-children, Becky Roberts, Nadine Boothby (Tammy), William Gauger II, Karen Luddington (Bob), Alicia Gauger, Scott Lucas, Sharon Adams (Chris), Stan Lucas; his grandchildren, Christi Dale Roberts, Timothy Coppage, Rebecca Sprunger (Troy), Sandra Cook, Shannon Barnes, Charles Gauger, William Gauger III, Ryan Luddington (Candie), Kyle Luddington, Faith Simms (Jeremy), and Loy Taylor; and his sister, Lynn Schmittz. As well as many great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Gauger; his step son, David Lucas; his sister, Margaret Ellen Bruehl; his grandson, Jason Luddington; and his sons-in-law, Gary Roberts and Terry Taylor.
Bill will be laid to rest at Marion National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions in Bill's name may be made to any military related charity of your choice.
