William "Bill" Head

Passed away August 16th, 2011 at home with his family and beloved dogs by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born December 4, 1951 in Kearny, NJ. Bill grew up in Wayne, NJ and graduated from Wayne Hills High in 1969. He went on to become a journeyman plumber, all the while pursuing his musical aspirations; playing guitar in many venues with his bands. In 1978, Bill moved to Sandpoint and later to Coeur d' Alene, where he went to work for the water department. He helped with forming a union and worked on many political campaigns, always striving to help those less fortunate. In 1985, Bill was bitten by the "car bug" and went on to work as a salesperson and manager. In 1996, Bill and his family moved to Spokane Valley. From 1998 until his retirement, he owned Heads Up Auto Sales in the Spokane Valley.

Bill's love of music and sports and his passion for politics were readily apparent to all who knew him. One could not have a conversation with Bill without knowing he was a diehard Yankees fan, a staunch Democrat and a connoisseur of great music.

There aren't many who knew Bill that couldn't say he impacted their life in some way. He was a straight talker, but he was honest and kind.

He was a "larger than life" man who was referred to as a teddy bear by family and close friends. He loved his family and friends and made no apologies for being himself. His love will live on in the lives of the people he touched and we will never forget that hand wave, head bob and "Are you talking to me?"

Bill is survived by the love of his life, Merytt Nelson; daughters Kourtney Head, Kery (Josh) McCullough, Krystal Milward; grandchildren, Andrew and Brynlee Milward, Peyton Douglas McCullough; sister, Marion (Warren) Bauer; cherished family and friends. Special thanks to Hospice of Spokane, especially Connie and Carlahn.

A Celebration of Bill's life will be held Friday, August 26th, 2011 at 4:00 PM at Thornhill Valley Chapel, 1400 S Pines, Spokane Valley, WA, Ray Ruef officiating.