William Don Stella

William Don Stella, 87, of Midland, passed away on October 31, 2012. He was born on July 6, 1925 in Omaha, Nebraska to Laura Palenske Stella and Basil Stella. After graduation from Benson High School at age 16, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force after his 17th birthday in July, 1942. He received his wings and was assigned to pilot duty for B-25’s just as WWII ended. He returned to Omaha, attended Creighton University, married and began a career in insurance and retail sales. He and his family lived in Nebraska and Iowa until Bill took a position with his brother, Fred Stella, at Village Lincoln-Mercury. He moved to Midland, where he met and married Sally Inman Kelly. The two brothers were in the auto sales business for many years and were known for their community service to Midland. He continued his love of flying in his private plane and was a long-time member of the Midland Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. Bill was a member of the American Legion, The Exchange Club, Knights of Columbus and Midland Need to Read organization. He and his wife Sally were members of the Midland Symphony, the Petroleum Club, Midland Country Club and were very active parishioners of St. Anne’s Catholic Church. He served as Eucharistic Minister for many years and continued to visit home bound parishioners until the last weeks before his death. He loved playing cards and traveling. His deep faith in God was shown by his generous help to everyone and especially by his love of family.

Those left behind to honor and cherish his memory is daughter Sandra, and a son, Jeffery; sisters, Mitzi Denman and her husband John of Fullerton, CA and Rita Faulders of Camarillo, CA; step-children; Christine Kelly, Kathleen Hernandez, Robert Kelly and their seven children. He also leaves behind fifteen nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be held Sunday, November 4, 2012 at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel at 7:00pm. Funeral Mass will be Monday, November 5, 2012 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

It is sad to say Midland has lost a familiar face around town.