Wilfred (Willie) Leonard Ableidinger was born to Tena and Ambrose Ableidinger on September 6, 1920 in Kensal, North Dakota. There he was raised on a farm with his siblings Earl, Ole, Gordon, and Nellie.
In 1941 when World War II began, dad felt compelled to serve his country. During this time, our father was a scout in the Army. He was on the frontlines when an enemy pilot flew over and dropped a bomb on an ammunition dump that he was near. It exploded and literally blew everything (clothes and shoes) right off of his body. Even though he was hurt, he attempted to help out his unit, but passed out. Due to the injuries he was sent back to the states for medical care. While in the hospital he met a Women’s Army Corp Nurse that was from Hawaii, her name was Kappy. He said to her “so your from the rock,” appalled by his comment she turned and walked away. Later she came back to check on him and he asked her out to the movies. Then on December 24, 1945 Willie and Kappy exchanged their vows and remained married for 57 years, until mom passed away in 2003. Dad retired from the Bureau of Reclamation in the 1970s and received a Purple Heart in the late 1980’s.
Willie’s hobbies throughout his life included hunting, square dancing, bowling, traveling the U.S., camping, fishing, and going for long walks. He was a member of the VFW Post 379, American Legion and the Eagles.
He is survived by his children Bob (Betty), Dale (Cece), Katie Walker and Lani Fayé (Rob); seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Kappy, daughter, Marlace (Hon Hon) Ream and a son Kenneth (Peewee).
We would like to extend a special thanks to Cedar Hills, Paul, Sue, Cece, Roxy, Jennifer and Lower Valley Hospice, Debbie Graves for their remarkable care they gave to dad.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 22 at Keith & Keith 9th Ave Chapel. Celebration of Willie’s wonderful life will be held at Keith & Keith Terrace Heights Chapel on Friday, April 23, 2010, a reception to follow at the VFW Post 379. To share a memory of Willie visit, www.keithandkeith.com.
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