William "Bill" Styers

Born in Henrietta, Oklahoma, William “Bill” Styers lived a full and vibrant life. He moved to Blythe, California, where he attended high school and developed a lifelong love for athletics. He excelled in track and field—particularly shot put—as well as football and basketball. In his later years, he enjoyed playing softball and coaching youth baseball, sharing his passion and wisdom with younger generations. Bill learned how to box from his father and loved telling stories, especially those about his mom and dad. His storytelling was a cherished part of who he was, often bringing laughter and warmth to those around him. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Geraldine Styers, in 1996. After retiring as a respected foreman from Grand Junction Steel, Bill began a new adventure with his wife, Lawanna Pearl Peeples. Together, they shared many joyful times camping, ATV riding, hiking, and rock hounding. They took countless road trips—Bill especially loved to drive—and spent winters in Martinez Lake, Arizona, where they made many dear friends. The outdoors were Bill’s sanctuary. He loved hunting, fishing, and searching for rocks and arrowheads. His favorite places included the Uncompahgre Plateau, Lake Powell, and Martinez Lake. He was a proud member of the BASS Association for many years and was deeply involved in supporting drag racing through his son and grandson, forming lasting friendships at the local drag strip. One of Bill’s prized possessions was his 1975 Dodge Power Wagon, which he purchased brand new and lovingly maintained for over 25 years before passing it on to his grandson. Bill is survived by his wife, Lawanna; three children, John (Diane) Styers of Florence, AZ, Doug (Teri) Styers of Grand Junction, CO, and Karen (Jim) Forland of Grayslake, IL; and four step-children, Steve (Marilyn) Peeples, Rick (Leslie) Peeples, and Tracy Peeples, all of Grand Junction, CO, and Lisa Ellingboe of Mesa, AZ. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and countless friends. Bill truly loved them all. No formal services are planned, but a celebration of life with friends and family is scheduled for next summer.