William “Bill” Hedgers Jr. passed away tragically in a house fire in Napavine, Wash., Nov. 23, 2019. He was born the eldest of three sons, to William “Bill” Sr. and Joann “Jo” Hedgers, May 15, 1950.
The family lived in Valsetz, Ore., before moving to Toledo, Wash., when he was in elementary school. Bill excelled in sports, especially football, holding the state high school career rushing record for nearly 20 years. He earned a football scholarship to Central Washington University, where he met his first wife, Lana (Henze).
He and Lana had two sons, Scott and Jared, before divorcing in 1979. Bill married Diana (Harden) in 1984, and they had one daughter, Kellie. Bill was also stepfather to Diana’s daughter, Rianne. Bill and Diana divorced in 2017, but remained a part of each other’s lives.
Bill was a timber faller for many years, followed by several years of selling vehicles at various car dealerships in Lewis and Cowlitz counties. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, watching sports and playing fantasy football. He was also an excellent gardener and enjoyed raising his own food and animals.
Bill is survived by his parents, Bill and Jo; brother, Brad; daughter, Kellie; two sons, Scott and Jared; three grandchildren; one nephew; three nieces, and numerous cousins.
A memorial service was held in Toledo in late December. His remains will be interred in Toledo Cemetery and spread near Mount St. Helens.
