Willard D. (Bill) Epperson, 83, of Overland Park, KS, passed away on February 23, 2005, at the home.

Bill was born in St. Louis, MO, November 1, 1921. As a young boy, he enjoyed spending his summers with relatives working on the family farm in Haubstadt, Indiana. He graduated from Clayton High School, St. Louis, MO, in 1939, and attended Washington University and the University of Alabama. He played Baritone in the Alabama Million Dollar Marching Band.

Bill served in the Army Air Force as a fighter/bomber pilot from 1942 to 1945, and ferried planes to Northern Africa. He was fired on and his plane was hit while on submarine patrol in the Caribbean. He later found out he was hit by friendly fire. He retired from the reserves in 1962, as a Captain.

He was employed by Inryco, Inc., a division of Inland Steel, for 34 years as a sales engineer and area manager.

His passions in life after retirement were his love for electronics, his Macintosh computer, photography, mental challenges, and his family. He was a member of Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church for 39 years, where he was active as an Elder and Deacon. He was involved with the Toastmaster's Club, the Johnson County Amateurs Radio Club, where he handled emergency communications for many area events, and Computer Club. He was also a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and the Christmas Bureau.

Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife, Lora, of 56 years, of the home; his two sons, Eric and David Epperson and their wives, Rebecca and Deborah of Shawnee, KS; five grandchildren, Matthew and his wife, Angela Epperson of Overland Park, KS, Elizabeth Epperson of Winfield, MO, Sarah Epperson of Shawnee, KS, and Jonathan Epperson and Timothy Epperson of Lawrence, KS. Bill also leaves behind other family members, including nieces and nephews, and many, many friends. He will be missed by all.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 26, 2005, at 3 p.m., at Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church at 9300 Nall, Overland Park, KS, (913642-9100). The family suggests donations should go to Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or Heartland Hospice.

(Arr: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Overland Park Chapel, 8201 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS, 913648-6224)

Published in the Kansas City Star on 2/25/2005A obituary