William Ernest Bristol

William Ernest “Bill” Bristol passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 15, 2021, 2 weeks after his 87th birthday. Bill was the youngest of 6 siblings born in Roosevelt, Utah, to Ernest Grant Bristol and Ardis Irene Wells Bristol on Nov. 1, 1934. During the depression, his family moved by horseback and wagon over Douglas Pass to the Grand Valley. Bill attended Hunter Elementary – Fruita Union High School. While at Fruita High School he played football, ran track, and was a member of the first wrestling team. It was also at high school that he met Marjorie Stutler. Bill and Marjorie were married on June 19, 1955. They were blessed by 66-plus years and three wonderful children: Debbie, Greg, and Gary. Bill would later build his family a second home on the site of Hunter Schoolhouse. Over the years, three houses would be built within a half-mile of his childhood home. Bill was always a hard worker, beginning with a summer job while in high school on a ranch in Burns, Colorado. After graduation, he worked for Miller Steel driving a loaded truck over narrow roads and erecting steel buildings in eastern Utah and Western Colorado. He worked as a carpenter, building houses in Grand Junction, and pumped gas at Gay Johnsons service station. One of his favorite jobs was dragline operator for the drainage district. He then worked as a welder/pipefitter for American Gilsonite. When the refinery closed he was instrumental in starting Grand Mesa Eggs and became production manager until he retired. Wherever Bill worked, he won over the confidence and respect of his co-workers. Bill used his free time to help build his church home, Monument View Bible, and was a trusted member of the board. He continued to farm and raise cattle. He made birdhouses, furniture for his grandchildren, and anything Margie needed. He always left something for us to enjoy. Bill was a true Renaissance Man of the West. Though he often worked with his hands, creating practical, yet elegant things, Bill also wrote smart, funny poems for special occasions. He had a gentle intelligence and spot-on sense about people and situations. He would quietly observe and sometimes offer his insights, often with a smile or a shake of his head. He liked a good joke and a good laugh. His wit, wisdom, and sense of humor brightened our lives, and his generosity and kindness will be missed. Bill loved the mountains and jeep trips through the San Juans and Grand Mesa with his kids. His best days fishing included a long troll for trout. He had a special connection with all sorts of animals. He also enjoyed traveling to NYC, Canada, Hawaii, and many trips to Lake Powell. Bill was loved by his family and friends, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, fond memories, and faith.

Bill is preceded in death by his father, mother, and brothers Floyd, Lee, and Roscoe, and sisters Ellen and Nelda. He is survived by daughter Debbie (Greg) Green, and sons Greg (Miki) and Gary (Diane Goldie). Also 8 grandchildren Ryan (Malia) Green, Jon Green, Julie (Zach) Martinez, Brittney, Brandan, Andrew, Leilani, and Grace Bristol, and four great-grandchildren: Eva, Moriah, Deker, and Kohen.

A service will be held at Monument View Bible Church on Saturday, Nov. 20th at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Monument View Bible Church: Missions Fund, Lower Valley Fire Protection District, or HopeWest.