William "Bill" Henry Spradley's Obituary
William H. Spradley, ((94), a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and longtime resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2023, surrounded by family.
William, fondly known as Bill, was born to Henry and Fern Spradley on June 18, 1928 in Tacoma, Washington. At the age of 16, Bill lied about his age and joined the Merchant Marines, and then, at 19, enlisted in the US Air Force, making the military his career, serving his country for 25 years. After an honorable discharge, he went into the Spartan School of Aeronautics as an instructor. After that, he went into the heat and air conditioning business until his retirement.
Bill is survived by his wife Mary (Babe) of 72 years and four children; Kay (Phil) Tyree, Debbi (Morris) Brandt, Patti (Dennis) White, and Mike Spradley. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Harrison (William Josiger) Tyree, Erin (Courtney) Christenson, Brent (Lori) Brandt, Michelle (Chris) Livesay, Joey Brandt, Jessica (Rob) Learned, Zach Omote, Amber (Josh) Ott, Rheanne (Aaron) Renzenbrink; 10 great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Fern & Henry; brothers, Fred, Dick, Bob; and sister, Luella.
Bill wore many hats, but the one that had the most influence on his life was probably his military hat. He valued his service highly, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. Bill’s experience as a boom operator in the Air Force played a very important role in his life. Not only did he have many amazing stories of his time in service, he also demonstrated to his family and friends that the Air Force taught him the value of discipline and hard work.
Bill also supported numerous veterans groups and causes throughout his life. He made charitable donations and participated in many reunions with his fellow servicemen.
Bill’s family will host a memorial service on Wednesday, February 8,2023 at 12:30. The service will be at the Floral Haven Funeral Home Gardens, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer's Association in Bill’s memory.
Funeral arrangements for Mr. William "Bill" Henry Spradley have been faithfully entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home and Crematory, which is located at 6500 South 129th East Ave., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012 and can be reached at (918)-252-2518.
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