Bill Rae O'Hara

Heaven just gained the southside favorite Irishman, as Bill passed away peacefully after a long illness, at home on December 5th.

He was born at home in Oelwein, Iowa, on January 11th, 1937 into a large Irish family of humble means. Bill often joked about growing up, if you didn’t get to bed early, you may not get a bed. Bill graduated from Oelwein High School with the class of 1956, where he excelled in chasing girls and basketball. Always one to stay fit and exercise Bill played pick-up basketball at the YMCA well into his sixties with men who were generations younger than he was. Despite the age difference, Bill was always one of the first players chosen for a team, this was due to his deadly accurate jump shot, which he was never shy to take. Years later giving advice to his grandkids about playing the game, one of his favorite lines was, “Never pass up a chance to shoot and score! Passing is Overrated!”

When Bill was 16, he met the love of his life, and the best thing that ever happened to him in a 15-year-old Shirley Adair. They were married in 1958 and their love affair would last over 64 years and produce 5 children, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. Bill retired from the Union Pacific Railroad in 1999 after 44 years of service. He worked many positions during those years from Brakeman, to Conductor to Engineer. Even though, railroad life kept him on the road away from home for days at a time he never seemed to miss the important events in our life. Bill was always there to support his kids and grandkids. He was known as the Gpa who was always willing to drive a carload of kids to any and all events.

Shortly after retiring, Bill and Shirley took on the role of parents once again, with “the boys” Tanner and Tayler living with them full-time, where they provided the boys a safe and loving home. This experience brought them much joy and pride and ultimately kept them younger than their years. His goal was to live long enough to see them earn a college degree and become good young men.
Dad, you were successful, you and Mom did an unbelievable job!

The family would like to thank Wesley Life Hospice and all their caregivers, along with friends who have supported him during this difficult time. A special thanks to Selena Knudsen, who took care of Bill so compassionately and thoroughly. Your kindness is much appreciated.

Per Bill’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held sometime after the holidays and will be welcome to all who would like to finally get that free beer out of Bill! Ha Ha!

Print