In Loving Memory … “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear.”
William ‘Bill’ Edward Holestine was born in Anacortes, Wash., on July 14, 1950. He came into the world with a great arrival. His parents lived on Orcas Island, and when his mother went into labor, the ferry was flagged and she barely made it to the hospital before Bill was born. His father, a logger at the time, heard the news and showed up with his logger cork boots, hurrying with excitement and ready to welcome their son into their family.
Bill passed away at the age of 70 on June 8, 2021, in Yakima, Wash. Bill lost his brave and long battle with cancer, but not without leaving his mark on this world in many ways. He was humorous, told great stories, very creative and loved to work with wood and rebuilding cars. He was known for his big heart. He was a loving son, husband, father and friend to many.
Bill is survived by his mother Margaret Johnson; his wife Xuan; children Luke, Tonia, Ben and Luckie; many grandchildren; siblings Karen, Karel and Ed; and nieces and nephews.
Bill grew up in Oregon and called his hometown Creswell, Ore. He was always a patriot and loved his country, family and friends.
When he graduated from Creswell High School he joined the Marines and served in Vietnam. When he returned he met and married Earlene Eastman a girl from Orcas Island, they raised their children Luke, Tonia and Ben on Orcas and other parts of Washington. Later Bill would go to Vietnam and meet Xuan and they married and raised their daughter Luckie in the Yakima area. He was a kind and loving father.
He came into the world with excitement and he left this world with excitement because he knew Jesus Christ. His daughter said when he died he had a smile on his face. Yes, he saw Jesus.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on June 24 at the American Legion Hall at 1120 N. 34th Ave. in Yakima. There will be a Military Honors funeral at 3 p.m. on June 26 for Bill at 605 E. Wiser Lake Road, Lynden.
Bill, you will be missed but not forgotten!
