Wilford Moses Stoler, known as “Willie”, was born April 21, 1929 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, the youngest child of Dr. Albert Edward Stoler and Olive Grace Moses. He passed away peacefully on Friday, July 2, 2021 in Salt Lake City.
Willie was the last living member of a large extended family, having been predeceased on both sides of the family by his parents, and many brothers and sisters. His family lived in Indiana, but his ancestors came from Germany and Switzerland.
Willie was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed telling the story of how his family first heard about the Church : As a medical doctor, his father parked out on the street, in case of any emergency calls. Missionaries from the Church placed tracts on the car windshields, under the wipers. His father read the tract, became interested, and wrote the Mission Home in Chicago. Later, two missionaries knocked on their door and the family invited them into their home. Two years later, the entire family was baptized on the same day, by Elder Wilford Hunt.
Willie moved to Salt Lake City about 1946 and attended East High School. An outstanding athlete who stood 6’5” and could run, catch, and throw—he lettered in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He played center on the basketball team. Willie was also elected East High Student Body President Class of 1948.
Willie met Vione Walker at a basketball game. They were married June 16, 1949 in the Salt Lake Temple. They have two daughters, Patrice (Scott Harmer) and Carrie (Carl Batchelor). Vione passed away December 2008. Willie and Vione have 7 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren. Willie’s greatest joy in life came from his family, faith, and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities afforded him. He was so grateful to live in a country where he could pursue his dreams and make a difference in the lives of others. Willie very much loved his family.
In 1956 Willie played in the LDS All Church Basketball tournament at BYU, Provo. He wore number 14.
Willie attended the University of Utah, graduating in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He also completed post graduate work in criminal justice.
Willie loved everything great about sports – teamwork, strategy, competition, comradery, and accomplishment achieved through hard work. When he was not playing sports, he loved coaching and teaching and made lifelong friends doing so. He coached Cops League baseball for 12 years. He coached men and boys basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and golf. He loved to play golf, especially at Davis County, Bonneville, and Forest Dale. He continued to play basketball, as well as baseball, softball, and volleyball. He and Vione loved the Utah Jazz basketball team and watched all their games on TV, along with U of U and BYU games, NFL games, etc.
Willie chose law enforcement as a career. He was a Salt Lake City Police Officer, beginning September 16, 1951, starting out as a rookie motorcycle patrolman, and retiring as Deputy Chief of Police after 35 years. After his retirement August 1985 he successfully ran for SLC City Council representing District 7 (Sugarhouse), and served for 4 years, including as Chairman. While a member of the SLC Council, Willie was named Peace Officer of the Year by the Exchange Club of Salt Lake City. Willie was an early contributor and supporter of the Sugarhouse Revitalization Plan and said as recently as a month ago that he was amazed and pleased at the growth, the vibrant businesses and housing development taking place in that area.
Services will be held at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 S. Highland Drive, SLC, Utah on Friday, July 9, 2021. The family will receive friends and family from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm. The Interment will directly follow.
Willie always said he wanted to have a colorful funeral. So please wear bright and cheery attire in his honor.
