William DeLong

It has been a great pleasure to have known Bill and have considered him a great friend. He's one of the few people I will forever cherish. I first experienced Bill some 25 years ago when I was visiting a sister business line where he was working part time in retirement. I say "experienced" as I had not formally met him yet, but I sure felt his presence. I was talking to the manager about his customers and products, but I couldn't help but notice the man running one of the data machines. He was focused on his work, but it was clear that he was absorbing everything that was going on in the business. Bill just had that presence. A few months later, we hired Bill's daughter Samantha in my business line. It took some time before I found out the relationship. Yes it was very clear neither of them ever let anything slip by unnoticed; maybe unsaid, but never unnoticed. Time moved forward but I still didn't really know Bill. After I left that company some 10 years later, Bills Daughter Samantha, her husband John, and my wife and I became great friends. We grew to know Bill more and more. Now in his 70's, his wit and sense of humor were one to keep up with. Always quick, always a teasing mind, and always an embracing smile. And we even shared the same love for bourbon, ribs, and any project to be completed! Those attributes stayed until just a couple weeks ago. We will dearly miss Bill, but he will never leave our side. Be in peace Bill.

I will have the pleasure of remembering Bill on a daily basis. Shortly after my wife and I moved into our home in 2002, Bill had noticed that our garage was bare and there was a need for a workbench and wall cabinets. Not long afterward he completed his project to make our life better. Everyday I have the opportunity to see his wonderful efforts and gift of five wall mounted cabinets and a fullsize workbench. As an added kicker, he later made ceiling mounted platforms that hang down on either side of my garage door tracks, further making excellent use of otherwise wasted space. I fully appreciate the design, craftsmenship, appearance and utility of this most gracious gift. To top it off, he was truly a joy at our family gatherings enjoying his loving concern for others. Bill, enjoy eternity with God. Bill Edington

The volunteers, flight team and board of Badger Honor Flight mourn the loss of their hero, William DeLong. We are thankful for his military service and proud to have served him on his trip to Washington, D.C. on April 2, 2011.