William (Bill) Neil Whitmarsh went home to be with his Lord, Creator, and Savior, Jesus Christ on April 17, 2025. Born in Lakeview, Oregon, on September 1, 1965, to Bruce and Ruth (Ylitalo) Whitmarsh, Bill lived a life marked by kindness, quiet faith, and a heart for others. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and is now reunited with them in glory.
Bill is survived by his sister, Liisa (John) Eyerly of Cornucopia, Wisconsin, and his brother Gerry (Patti) Whitmarsh of Edmonds, Washington. He also leaves behind a cherished nephew, Matthew Eyerly (Sharon), and two nieces, Kate Hoffman and Kristyn Eyerly-Een (Joshua). Great nephew August and great niece, Elle, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him.
A proud graduate of Custer County High School, Bill was a member of the school’s state runner-up championship football team, played varsity tennis and carried that Cowboy pride with him throughout his life. He attended Montana State University-Bozeman. As an avid sports fan, Bill would happily engage in any conversation about football, basketball, baseball, tennis, and especially about his beloved Denver Broncos and MSU Bobcats. He loved swimming and spending time at Spotted Eagle. He picked up gardening later in life and was known for his flaming hot peppers. He held a variety of jobs across the country. Whether selling snow cones at local events or helping customers at Walmart, Bill left a smile with everyone he met.
Bill was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Miles City, where his faith was lived out in quiet devotion and service. He took pride in his Finnish heritage, occasionally, displaying the legendary Sisu—that mix of grit, determination, and yes, a bit of stubbornness—that made him uniquely Bill.
Bill was truly grateful for the healthcare professionals at DCI and his caring hospice team. His body will be laid to rest in the family cemetery plot in Chatham, Michigan. A memorial service celebrating Bill meeting Jesus face to face, will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Miles City, on Saturday, May 10th at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Trinity Lutheran Classical School. Condolences can be made to the family by visiting stevensonandsons.com.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” —Matthew 25:23
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday May 10, 2025
Trinity Lutheran Church
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday May 10, 2025
Trinity Lutheran Church
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Martha Crandall says
My sympathy
Ross says
R I P Bill
Michael Carr says
Bill we go back a long ways. You’re a nice man who always had something nice to say about everybody. I really enjoyed my time with you . We sure had fun back in the good old days and kept it going all the way to the present. It was definitely my honor to call you my friend. My heart is so sad because it’s time to say goodbye. Even though I’m sad I’m smiling because I know you’re not suffering anymore . Enjoy heaven and rest in peace my friend.
Vikki Bradley says
Prayers to the family. RIP Bill
Vanessa Raschkow says
You were truly one of the most wonderful men I knew wasn’t anything you wouldn’t have done for me and my son.Im sorry we drifted apart and never got to make amends. I’m glad your at peace now , reunited with mom and dad …My prayers for your brother, sister and her children …You will be missed by all whos life’s you touched.
Xina says
I am sorry to hear this. I always enjoyed Bill.
He has been sick for a very long time. May he now have peace.
Justin Clearwater says
I liked Bill he was my friend.
Rebecca Lynam says
Oh Billy Boy. This is sad news to hear. You will be missed but you loved Jesus so, see you again some day.
Joe Fredrickson says
Rest easy my friend!!
Barb and Jim Nelstead says
Thoughts and prayers out to Bill, Gerry, Lisa and the rest of the Whitmarsh family.
Robert L Flotkoetter says
Our thoughts To Bills Family
Kelli says
My condolences to Bill’s family. I enjoyed visiting him when we both worked at Walmart. Thoughts and prayers to all.
Kimberly Meidinger Wilson says
So sorry to hear this. Always nice to see & visit with him at the class reunions. Always a nice guy. Rest in peace Bill.