William "Willie" Lester Hall
September 05, 2020
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Service Details
William Lester Hall (Willie) born March 2, 1948 in Des Moines, IA.
“I don’t live here anymore.” My early life was full of pain and confusion. My preteen years were not much different. I could not get it right for anyone. My teen years were full of rebellion and alcohol. School was one failure after another until I turned 17 and got kicked out of school and my home. I enlisted in the Army, which I thought was a respectable choice and I regained a feeling of purpose. Then came Vietnam! Everything I thought I knew about the world was totally different. That was the toughest year of my life. I lost squad mates. However, my early years prepared me to rely on my instincts and think for myself, so that when I became responsible for the squad, I didn’t lose a man. I came home to jeers and taunts from my countrymen who I had fought for to keep free and continue their way of life. The result of that sent me down the path to isolation, depression, and failed relationships. But, on January 1st, 1976 I met the best thing to ever happen to me, a true mate that allowed me to fulfill a dream of having a family. Over the years, there were bumps, some more painful than others. Vietnam continued to haunt me, however I feel very blessed with my life from 1976 to now. To the soldiers coming home today, I know it is a rough ride, but don’t give up. There is still a future for you, including meaningful relationships. Don’t lose hope, keep moving forward.
The family of Bill Hall, wife, Nanette; sons, Ira (Jess) and Alan (Brenda) are so proud and grateful to have been a part of his journey. Even though Bill’s early years could easily have hardened him, he chose to live a life of empathy and kindness. Not only did Bill try, he could visualize a plan, execute it with steadfast work ethic. He showed his love for us through his actions, not just words. He did this by: taking care of his parents, bringing his mother-in-law back to finish her final journey, and being part of many renovation projects with his children. He delighted in spending time with his granddaughter, Adilyn. It was an honor and blessing for us to care of him at his end of life. We look forward to the day we can see him in Heaven, as well as the cup of coffee we know he will have waiting for us!
Bill will be laid to rest at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to The Church at Union Park – Solid Rock Youth Group.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Dawn
10/14/2020
I just viewed the lovely photo tribute. What a wonderful remembrance of the years of treasured memories. My heart goes out to Nanette, "the boys" and their families in this difficult time, one that nonetheless draws us closer together. Blessings.
Lucy holmes
10/08/2020
Willie, as I called you, I never knew "all" about you 'til I read your obit that you yourself wrote. It would take me forever to type my heart felt feelings at this time, and an ocean to hold my tears.. First off, I have utmost respect and love for you in that, after all you had been through in your growing up years and young adult years and your Viet Nam years with the resultant stupidity of bad attitude by our general populace -- your obit was non-condemnetory, but absolutely loaded with "don't let it get you down, put it behind you, reach for better goals and excellency, leave a lot of happy tracks". Happy tracks you left, indeed, Willie, an undescribale example for the rest of us. While your heart still felt the non-comprehensible pain of youth, Viet Nam and the resultant untolerable memories, rejection and trials of life, yes, you left an example of perseverance and forgivness that goes beyond comprehension. Not many of us can comprehend the pain nor the victory over it all, but you certainly gave us a slam bang mighty good example of how to not "cry in your beer" and get on with living. You were in our home before going to Nam, and had a cool refreshment with us, and after you left I hung your straw on my kitchen cabinet, where I could see it all the time, trusting you would return safe and we would see each other again. You DID return, but it took many years before we saw each other again. God answered my prayer one day at WalMart via your lovely wife, and we did get to visit again! Through the years that straw absolutely disintegrated and fell apart, but not our Christian brotherly and sisterly love. it would have been an horrendously sad day for me had I never seen you here on earth again. What a wonderful day in Heaven when we can all be together again with each other and our wonderful Saviour. Thank you, Willie, from the bottom of my heart for being an ongoing encouragement and uplifting part of my life, both because of your life, and also your death. Thus you are not dead. Many soldiers, Vietnamese, and ourselves, are happy and alive because of you, Willie, you live on in us. Many hundreds, thousands, millions, jillions, triilions, quad ---- whatever! ---- times, we thank you again and again. Keep the gates shined up until we can get up there with you, Will. Praise be to our God Almighty and His Son, Jesus Christ. Well, Buddy, it's so long, but not too long, before this 88 year old body says farewell to earth and you and I will meet again. I know that by now you know for sure that God loves you, and I love you, too! Thank you again, and again, and again, and on and on forever!
Toni
09/29/2020
Just heard about Bill's passing. prayers for your family. greatful I got to know him
Barbara Spong
09/14/2020
Sincere condolences Nanette, Alan, Ira and families. The video shows the love all of you shared through the years. May your shared memories be a blessing. The obituary was beautiful and honest.
Chester P. Larson
09/14/2020
My sincere condolences to Nanette & Family . Bill & I talked many times over the years . He still called me Leutnant & always ended our conversations with I love you man & " STAY ALIVE " I also loved this Man & told him so . He was a Fine Soldier ! He was my favorite & Best Point Man .You could always count on Bill to have your back ! I'm very blessed my wife & I got to visit with Bill & Nanette a few years ago .Rest in peace Bill . I miss him !
David & Kathy
09/13/2020
We would of liked to have known Willie. Even though he lived through a rough upbringing he became a fearless comrade, a wonderful husband, and father and grandfather. We thank Willie for his service defending our country especially at a time when it wasnt popular. RIP
Les Deaton
09/13/2020
Vietnam did a lot of things to me Maybe it's because I can relate and it was about him that was the best obituary I have ever read sorry for your loss
Jane Horn
09/13/2020
I am very sorry Nanette and to your family, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you,
Deb Cooper
09/13/2020
I just read Mr. Halls obit & cried my eyes out. God bless him & his family; you will all be in my prayers. I hope your cherished memories will bring you comfort & peace. Belated thanks to Mr. Willie for his service to our country.
Shannon & Joel
09/09/2020
Nanette & family-
We are so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. We know how much you loved him and he loved you right back. Please know you are in our prayers and our hearts! So glad you have faith and each other for comfort.Plus a whole bunch of good memories! We love you guys!
Dyan Bell
09/08/2020
I dont know Mr. Willie, but just got done reading about him...A true and honest man, and told it just like it was...your a lucky woman Mrs Hall and his kids are too, once he found where he was suppose to be he lived live to the fullest, never forgetting his veteran brothers past and present. This man has earn his wings and as he is laid to rest be proud and smile as he goes to heaven. Hes a legend many memories will be repeated Im sure of Willie...hold them close to your hearts...I have enjoyed reading about his life, but you his family has lived it...RIP Mr Willie your a shining star.
Deborah Cox
09/08/2020
Words cannot convey how sorry I am for your loss. I know the pain is deep now, but with the help of the Lord it will lessen in time. Keep the memories close and know Bill loved you all. I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts.