William Donald Shird

William Shird passed away peacefully Dec. 11, 2021 at the age of 87 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. William, or Bill as he liked to be called, was born in the small village of La Farge, Wisc., along the Kickapoo River to Robert and Glennie. He grew up with his sister Linda. During Bill’s teenage years he enjoyed outdoor activities, automobiles and was on the varsity basketball team of his school. Still a teenager, Bill and the family moved to Portland where at the age of 18 he met his wife of 52 years, Janice. They fell in love while both working at the Meier & Frank department store downtown. In his early 20’s Bill began an electrical industry career achieving many milestones, first of which was a statewide award and banquet in his honor for ‘Apprentice of the Year.’ By 1970 he became a partner of a local shop and later sole owner. Bill served in the IBEW for over 60 years and as regional NECA president for a full term. Along with his work, Bill managed to support his wife and children’s needs and their interests; for instance, he served as scoutmaster in a local troop and many other school activities, respected and admired by all that knew him. Throughout his life, Bill enjoyed fishing, bowling, gardening, Bond 007 movies, woodworking, and golf, the latter of which he made his first ‘hole in one’ after 22 years at the sport. Bill is survived by his five children; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse; sister; and a nephew. He was laid to rest next to his loving wife Jan. 6, 2022, in Skyline Memorial, during a private ceremony.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.skylinememorialgardens.com for the Shird family.