William Harvey Lind

William Harvey Lind, known affectionately as Bill to his friends and family, passed away on July 6, 2025, in Chandler, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and skilled craftsmanship. Born on November 23, 1943, in Burlington, Iowa, Bill's journey through life was marked by dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

Bill's heart belonged to his high school sweetheart, Patricia Ann Breithaupt, whom he lovingly called "Pattie Ann." Their love story began in their teenage years and continued to flourish for 59 years of marriage, having tied the knot on August 27, 1966, at the First Baptist Church in Beloit, Wisconsin. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership, even as Bill humorously admitted to getting cold feet at the last minute before their wedding.

Together, Bill and Pattie Ann raised a family of two sons, Wade and Brett, who married Shelli and Emily, respectively. Bill's role as a grandfather was one of his greatest joys, cherishing moments with his grandchildren Karli Miller, her husband Michael, Madelyn Lind, her partner Jose’ Ibirra, Sophia Lind, her fiancé Aaron Shaw, Amanda Lind, and Pierce Lind, as well as his great-granddaughter Emilia. His siblings, Richard Lind and Mary Moore, along with her husband Jim, also shared in the richness of Bill's life. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Mary Lind as well as his sister Joan Feldott.

Bill's professional journey was as diverse as it was accomplished. Working on farms as a teenager, he learned how hard work and perseverance pays off. After graduating from Beloit Memorial High School in 1962, he pursued further education at Rock Valley Community College, earning an AA in Quality Assurance in 1975 when his boys were young and later earned his BA in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix in 1990. His career path saw him contributing his talents to various companies, including Beloit Tool and Die, Warner Brake and Electric, OMC Corporation, Pixley Richards Plastics, Garrett, Allied Signal, and ultimately retiring from Honeywell in 2005. His service in the Wisconsin Army National Guard during the Vietnam conflict showcased his patriotism and sense of duty.

A man of faith, Bill lived his life with a sense of purpose and kindness. His interests were as unique as his personality, with a particular passion for restoring cars. Beginning with a 1951 Mercury then a 1956 Ford Victoria in high school, Patricia’s grandfather’s farm truck after high school, a 1958 Corvette while starting his family, two 1956 Ford Victoria's, a 1968 VW Beetle, 1977 MGB, a 1976 Ford Ranchero, his 1977 Ford F250 Supercab, to his award-winning 1963 Ford Falcon Futura convertible, Bill's talent for bringing old vehicles back to life was unmatched. He was an active member of the Fabulous 50's Car Club, and the Arizona Chapter of the Ford Falcon Club for which he wrote many newsletters with detailed explanations and instructions for restoring and keeping their cherished rides in tip top shape. Bill had a creative and artistic side. Though not pursued professionally, it was evident in his ability to build and fix anything with a level of precision and creativity that amazed those around him.

Those who knew Bill will remember him as a loving, funny, and handy man, always ready with a joke, a silly expression or to lend a helping hand. His laughter, wisdom and warmth filled every room, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Bill's life was a beautiful tapestry of family, work, and hobbies, each thread woven with care, devotion and attention to the details.

As we say goodbye to Bill, a devoted husband and dedicated father and grandfather, we celebrate a well-lived life, full of moments and adventures that will be cherished forever by his family and friends. Bill's legacy will continue to live on through the stories shared, the cars he restored, and the love he spread throughout his remarkable life.

We will always love you.