William Dale "Bill" Hamilton

It is with heavy hearts and a sprinkle of laughter that we bid adieu to William "Bill" Dale Hamilton, the maestro of mischief, who left us on June 29, 2023, in Auburn, Wash., at a youthful 63.

Born on Sept. 30, 1959, in Tonasket, Wash., Bill brought joy and never a dull moment to the lives of his loved ones.

Bill, a.k.a. The Adventurous Ace was like a human laugh track, always ready for an exciting escapade and armed with a treasure trove of quick quips. His heart overflowed with compassion, and he selflessly spread laughter like confetti wherever he went. A mastermind of mirth and a scholar of wit, Bill's intelligence shone as brightly as a supernova.

In the realm of familial ties, Bill was the youngest in his blended family. He is survived by a sister, Lori Nick of Tonasket; a stepsister, Janice Truax of Tonasket; and two half-brothers, Shawn in Ohio and Damian in Arizona; and his children, Sarah Langrock and Will Hamilton, both of Kent, Wash., and practitioners of shenanigans par excellence. Sprinkling the Hamilton family tree with glee are his grandchildren, namely Willy Hamilton of Bonney Lake, Wash., and Milah, Georgia, Garrison, and Olive Langrock, all of Kent, carried on his legacy of side-splitting entertainment. 

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Beryl and Roy Curtis; his father, William Hamilton; and two stepbrothers, Dennis and Bruce.

Underneath Bill's mischievous exterior, there lay a foundation of education. From his early days at Tonasket Elementary, he honed his jesting skills and wisecracking prowess. His knowledge fountain continued to flow at Tonasket High School, where he graduated in 1978. Seeking higher learning, Bill ventured to Maricopa Technical Community College in Arizona, where he fell head over heels for Linda Yuknis and began their 32 year adventure. Battling the ups and downs of life they raised their children, triumphed over cancer and parted ways. 

In his career, Bill worked in various capacities. He was employed by Comprehensive Mental Health, where he contributed to the maintenance of the facility. Additionally, he owned and operated Rock Solid Enterprises as a self-contractor. Bill also served as a maintenance staff member at River of Life Fellowship and worked as a carpenter/apprentice at Covenant Home Improvement. His dedication and craftsmanship were evident in all his endeavors. He also worked at GMA Research as a data researcher.

Bill found solace at River of Life Fellowship, where laughter mingled with divine inspiration. He showcased his talents as an usher, making sure each congregant was welcomed with a warm smile.

When not tickling funny bones, Bill found joy in landscaping projects at the Normandy Park Campus; and bonding with his cherished family, especially the grandkids who inherited his wacky wisdom. Dogs inhabited a special corner of Bill's heart, and his furry companions Walter, Rocky Karma were always by Bill's side. 

Bill was a fun-loving individual who always sought out adventure. He had a selfless nature and prioritized the well-being of others. His quick wit and sharp intellect brought joy to those around him, as he had a knack for making people laugh. Bill was a beloved father, grandfather, and sibling who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service was held July 22 at New Life Normandy Park with Pastor Miles Langrock officiating, Bill’s son-in-law.