OBITUARY
William D. "Bill" Hufford
July 2, 1948 – March 10, 2014
William Douglas Hufford Urbandale
William D. “Bill” Hufford, 65, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 10, 2014 at his home in Urbandale. Celebration of life services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines.
Bill was born July 2, 1948 in Des Moines to William and Jean (Gerber) Hufford. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1966, served in the Navy during the Vietnam Conflict and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of South Dakota, where he played football. He enjoyed gardening, golfing, softball, biking, cooking, networking, and spending time with family and his granddaughter, Amelia. He was a 30+ year supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and was a member of the I-Club.
Bill was extremely passionate about life, family, friends and business. He had a big heart, always giving and putting others before himself. Bill was a great story teller, always telling jokes, making people laugh and was an inspiration to many.
Bill is survived by his wife of 36 years, Rosemary of Urbandale; three children, Jessica (Bradley) Duchac of Edmond, OK, Sarah (Nick) Knute of Waukee and Christopher J. Hufford of Union City, CA; granddaughter, Amelia; six siblings, Steve (Gwen) Hufford of Anchorage, AK, Connie (Phil) Kauzlarich of Des Moines, Gary (Pamelda) Hufford of Des Moines, Jim (Karen) Hufford of West Des Moines, Lisa Hufford of West Des Moines and Lori (Shane) Quinters of Coon Rapids, MN; step-mother, Betty Hufford of Tulsa, OK; mother-in-law, Amelia Giudicessi of West Des Moines as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, John Giudicessi.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines with a prayer service at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the John Stoddard Cancer Center.
Services
- Celebration of Life Friday, March 14, 2014
- Visitation Thursday, March 13, 2014
- Prayer Service Thursday, March 13, 2014
REMEMBERING
William D. "Bill" Hufford
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RECEIVE UPDATESJanette Nielsen
March 21, 2014
Sarah, I just heard about your dad. I know there are no words that can sooth your pain, but please know I am thinking of you and your family.
March 17, 2014
Rose, we are so sorry for your loss. We are blessed to be 'related' through marriage to the Washinowski's--and that kind of makes us 'related' to your family too. So glad to have met you and Bill in Florida at a very special wedding! You are in our prayers. Martin and Jeanie Sonnenfeld
Christine Taggart
March 16, 2014
Dear Rose, I am so sorry to hear about Bill's passing. I spoke to him not to long ago and if I had had any idea it would be the last time, I would have told him what an incredible person he was and what an inspiration he was to me and so many others. I am so sad for you and your family and wish you comfort and grace.
March 15, 2014
Dear Rose - I was in disbelief when Tod told me Bill had passed away. He had a presence that was larger than life and a heart to go with it. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Peace and blessings - Diane
Martie Wynne
March 14, 2014
Please accept my sincere condolences. Bill will be missed even by those who only knew him in recent years through Facebook. I hope your wonderful memories are a small consolation in your grief. Martie Wynne
Brad Carre
March 14, 2014
To Bill's family, I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was a great man, always trying to make someone laugh! Playing cards with Bill was especially fun because he never really cared if he won, he was just there for the friendships! You will be missed my friend!
Ron McPherson
March 14, 2014
Dear Rose and Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family at the loss of Bill. He was a great man, friend and mentor to me and I owe him a debt of gratitude for being the kind person that he was as I would not be where I am today if it were not for him and he will always have a place in my heart and will never be forgotten. I had recently been thinking about getting in touch with him and wish I had. I had hoped to attend the visitation, but due to me needing to help my wife with finishing getting things ready for her mother's memorial service whom had passed away this past Saturday and is also being held the same day and time as Bill's, I was not able to make it there, however, I will keep you in my prayers.
March 14, 2014
Bill will be missed more then words can say, he was a father figure & friend to both his siblings & other kids in the neighborhood. He took on this roll when circumstances brought this fourth & never compromised or complained. He made sure we were raised right. The world also lost a Navy Corpsman, A Marines best Friend, there is no replacement for that. Rose & family we love you. Kip & Tracy
March 13, 2014
Bill was such a wonderful inspiration to me and a shining example of God's love. My thoughts and prayers to Rose and the entire family. Jim Mooney
Blair Marie Wheatcraft
March 13, 2014
To the whole Hufford family. I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you all, and sending positivity & love to you all also. Stay strong.
Love
Blair Marie Wheatcraft
Kim Howell
March 13, 2014
NOBODY loves his family and life more than Bill Hufford. We should all aspire to be as loving, compassionate and giving as him. Each time I was welcomed into his home with open arms and not one memory of Bill is without him smiling and laughing (usually at his own jokes)! My beloved Huffords, may you be surrounded with love in this painful time. Much love, Kim
Mary Laird
March 13, 2014
Bill Huffard's Family, I am so sorry for the loss of Bill. He was very kind to me and even gave me a job reference not very many days ago. It was a shock to hear of his passing and instantly brought tears to my eyes. I hope that you will all find peace and comfort in the days ahead. He will be missed and I will remember his kindness always.
McPartland Family
March 13, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Bill brought such laughter and joy into our lives.
Eric Mueller
March 13, 2014
Rose and family, My deepest sympathy for your loss. I have fond memories of stories and jokes he shared. What a great shining light in this world. Our prayers are with your family.
Pam Hillabolt
March 13, 2014
Rosie, I am so sorry to hear of Bill's untimely death. What a great family man and such a sweetheart. Remembering all the fun times with the kids at Anns Day care. My prayers are with you and your family. I am in AZ but my thoughts are with you and the kids.
Pam & Gary Hillabolt
March 13, 2014
Very sad to learn of Bill's passing. It was always pleasant and interesting to be in his company. Our prayers go out to all of his family. God bless. Ray and Jeanann Johnson
terri baskerville
March 13, 2014
Rose and all the Huffords whom I have known for so long. I'm so saddened to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers today and always. With sincere and loving thoughts and memories, Terri Baskerville
Bill Marcy Essy
March 13, 2014
Rosemary Bill and I are very sad for your loss. You two were blessed with each other for a long time and we will pray for you. We are in Mexico or we would be there for you.
Jodi Sorensen
March 13, 2014
Rose and family, Our hearts reach out to all of you. Bill was a good man and a good friend. You are in our prayers. Clyde and Jodi Sorensen
March 13, 2014
Rose and family, Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Bill was a wonderful person. We are so blessed to have known him. Your strength will come from the Lord, and happy memories. Bill is only a thought away and will always be in our hearts. Clyde & Jodi Sorensen
Andrea (Andi) Kann
March 12, 2014
My heart is saddened with Bill's passing. I am praying for God's grace to surround you all and give you comfort.
Shawnda Rogers
March 12, 2014
Mrs. Rose
I am praying for you, for the Lord to comfort your heart. Cry when you need too, laugh when you want too.
Love you,
Miss Shawnda
Jessica Stille-Willenborg
March 12, 2014
I am filled with sadness for you Rose. I remember working with you, and you telling me all about your beloved husband. You told me how you met, and would always light up when you talked about him. I am praying for you and your family. I hope your memories of him comfort you through this difficult time.
Denise Jones (Logli)
March 12, 2014
Rose & family,
I wish to express my sincere condolences to all of Bill's family. Though I just met him once, almost a year ago, I am grieving his loss. I was profoundly struck by his sincerity, zest for life, dedication to family,& passion for living. In our brief conversation, we spoke of many things & he made a strong & delightful impression on me. I thought you may like to know how strongly & positively he could impact a person like me. It's a testament to his character. May God & His spirit bring healing, strength & assurance to each of you. I'd like to echo the wise thoughts written prior. Focus on all that you had, not what you've lost.
Janice Lintz
March 12, 2014
I can't even begin to express my sincere sorrow for your loss... as well as ours. We are all still in utter shock, as I'm sure you are too. Please know that our prayers are absolutely with you and if there's anything you need in the coming days, weeks, or even months, please, please, please don't hesitate to ask. Know that we love you and are here to support you!
March 12, 2014
Rosemaryand Family. I was so sad to hear about Bill. He was so fun and full of life when I was with you guys at an Iowa game years ago. May God be with you and your kids at this time. God Bless.
Jeannie Fulitano Nogel
Joyce Modeland
March 12, 2014
I grieve with you and your children Rose. It is so hard to say good bye to those we love. You have his wonderful memories and legacy to see you through until you are all reunited in heaven.
DeAnna Graham
March 12, 2014
What a shock to lose such a nice, caring and kind man. I am happy to have known him. So sorry for your loss, you are in my prayers, Rose.
Janette Nielsen
March 12, 2014
Sara, So sorry to here of this sad new. My prayers and thoughts are with your family. Janette Nielsen (DeSoto Intermediate)
Ray Boyer
March 12, 2014
Rose and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will miss him dearly. It's his party and he's bringing a smile to all.
Melisa and Scott Richeal
March 12, 2014
Rose and family,
We are thinking of you all and keeping you in our prayers. Bill was a great person and he will live forever in our hearts.
Tyler and Summer
March 12, 2014
All our love.
March 12, 2014
Love and prayers from the Turner family.
March 12, 2014
Love your family with all my heart.
Sue Rasmussen
Mickey Spieker
March 12, 2014
Rose, I always loved your family, remember spending time with Bill at a couple of work functions. I am so sorry for you and your family, however don't be sad because it is over, be so happy that it happened. Love you Rose and Lisa
Mickey Koons Spieker
Michele Sheedy
March 12, 2014
Rose and family please accept my sincere condolences for your lost. May your prayers and faith help you all in these times of sorrow. He we be gravely missed by all who knew him. He touched us all in many ways. Wish I were there but I am spiritual greiving from afar (Phoenix). Please accept my apologizes for not able to make the services. Prayers and hugs to you and yours. This is not a good-bye Willie, this is a farewell until we meet again.
Ben Ingamells
March 12, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to The Huffords and all extended family
Wayne Graeve
March 12, 2014
Rose and family,
It grieves me to read of Bill's death. I am so saddened and extend my condolences to all of you. The obituary said it so well. Bill definitely made me laugh. He had a huge heart and am sure he will be sorely missed by you and his many friends.
With much love,
Wayne Graeve
Mackay, Queensland, Australia