William C. Neils

William Clarence "Bill" Neils, 81 of Clarkdale, Arizona and Anacortes, Washington, passed away on July 13, 2011 of natural causes. Bill was born on September 16, 1929 in Pincher Creek, Alberta, Canada. During his youth, Bill excelled as a hockey player with some time spent in the professional leagues. His hockey career was interrupted by the call of duty. Bill served in the US Navy during WWII and in the US Army during the Korean War. He relocated to Great Falls, Montana and began to start his family and professional career. Bill became a business partner in two heavy equipment dealerships: Monty Machinery and Tri State Equipment. During his residence in Montana, Bill became an active member of the Masons. Bill relocated to Phoenix, Arizona and founded Neils Detroit Diesel Allison. During his several decades in this business, he had the honor of serving as the president of Amigos; an Arizona Mining Industry Support Organization. After retirement, Bill established Dual Residences in Clarkdale, Arizona and in Anacortes, Washington. Bill loved boating and exploring the waterways of the San Juan Islands, Alaska and British Columbia. Bill is survived by his wife Peggy and his 3 sons; Randall Smith (Cathy), Michael Neils (Eliza) and Brett Neils (Darcy); all living in the Phoenix area. In addition, Bill has 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at 1:00pm at Westcott Funeral Home, 1013 E. Mingus Ave, Cottonwood, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Shriners\u0027 Children\u0027s Hospital in Bill\u0027s memory, 1-800-241-GIFT or Northern Arizona Hospice, 203 S Candy Ln # 10A, Cottonwood, AZ 86326. An online guestbook is available to sign at www.westcottfuneralhome.com