William F. Carnell

William F. "Bill" Carnell, 89, resident of Camp Verde, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2007. He was born December 12, 1917 in Halls, Tennessee. He served during WWII with the Navy Seabees, stationed in New Caledonia and Guadalcanal. Bill was the former President of Operating Engineers Local #428. Bill was one of the last of the "Greatest Generation". He always carried a twinkle in his blue eyes and a beautiful grin on his face. Bill never knew a stranger, and he always had a kind word for everyone. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, but also enjoyed gardening. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Ellen Carnell; son, William F. Carnell, Jr.; parents, Lucian and Lily Carnell; brothers, Ivan and Bud; and his very best friend, Ken "Mac" McCormick. Bill is survived by his wife of 24 years, Joy Carnell of Camp Verde; daughters, Jane Haddix of Boise, Idaho, and Gwen Csoka of Scottsdale; step-sons, Gary Rodes of Holbrook, and David Rodes of Scottsdale; brother, Henry "Hank" Carnell; his sister, LaVenia "Pat" Williams; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held in Bill's honor on Sunday, March 18, 2007 at 2:00pm at the Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1825 N. Alvernon, Tucson, Arizona; where he was a member. Immediately following the service, Bill will be laid to rest at the East Lawn Palms Cemetery, also in Tucson. All are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Heart Association, 710 2nd Ave, Suite 900, Seattle, WA 98104. An online guestbook is available at www.westcottfuneralhome.com