William 'Bill' Hosford, 85

William Benton Hosford passed away May 31, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Bill, also known as Dad, Uncle Bill, Willard and sometimes Red, from back in his General Motors days, lived 85 full and adventuresome years. Bill was born in Pasadena, Calif., on May 15, 1939, to Donald Brollair Hosford and Leila (Kellogg) Hosford. Bill married Shirley Lee Allen in 1971, the love of his life, who preceded him in death in October 2012. Bill worked for General Motors in southern California for 30 years and upon retiring, he and Shirley moved to Idaho in 1989. They both felt at home in Coeur d’Alene, living on Fernan Lake for many years. Bill and Shirley enjoyed traveling by their favorite mode of transportation: cruise ship! They embarked on over forty cruises, including two around the world, with many trips to Europe, Japan and all places in between. When they were feeling lucky, they would take their kids and grandkids with them.

Bill was a gregarious man who always warmed the room when he walked in it, typically smiling from ear to ear. His friendliness, his quick wit and humor, and his unending generosity were traits everyone admired. So many things can be said about Bill’s beautiful soul, like how he always helped others before helping himself. His love and loyalty as a friend, but more importantly as a husband, father and grandfather, will be deeply missed.

Bill is survived by his children, Tiffany Scattaglia of Hayden, Idaho; Christopher Mirate (Christine) of Tijeras, N.M.; Allen Hosford (Amy) of Muskegon, Mich.; Donald “Hoss” Hosford (Anna) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; seven grandchildren; and two brothers. 

There will be a celebration of life Aug. 10, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Please contact Amy Hosford at amy.hosford@gmail.com for details.