William John Walsh (retired U.S.A.F.)

Bill was born August 9, 1919, in Philadelphia, PA. He had an interest in aviation from an early age, influenced by the transatlantic flight of Charles Lindberg. This led to a life-long career as a pilot. In World War II Bill was a B-17 Bomber Pilot in the 8th and 15th Air Force and credited with fifty-three combat missions. His many decorations included the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross with an Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with eight Oak Leaf Clusters, a Meritorious Service Medal and a Presidential Unit Citation.

Bill pursued his career after the war as a pilot with TWA where he met Alice Fitzmorris, his beloved wife of 62 years.

Bill then re-entered the Air Force, with tours of duty domestically and abroad. He retired from active duty in 1973 after a 30 year career from Bergstrom Air Force Base, Austin, Texas.

He was not only exceptional in his duty to God and country, he was a wonderful Dad to his three children – Bill (daughter-in-law Nora Junod), Diane (son-in-law Alvin Taylor), and Kathleen (son-in-law Bill McClure). Bill loved being “Pop-Pop” to his three grandchildren, Casey, Taylor and Kelly. He loved them beyond measure.

His family is so grateful for the loving, devoted care of his Angels on Earth Peggy Thompson and Nettie Curry, whom he loved very much. We are also so thankful to Dad and Mom’s neighbors, David and Connie Devine for their kindness and friendship throughout the years.

We will miss this wonderful gentleman. His dancing, singing, and love filled our hearts, and we were so proud he was our Dad.

We are comforted knowing he is once again united with his sweet Alice in God’s loving embrace.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church in Fredonia, Kansas.