Bill Dreger, 76, was the middle child born to Sarah (Sadie) and Francis Dreger on Sept. 22, 1931, in Philadelphia, and died suddenly on June 24, 2008, in Edmonds. Bill grew up and lived in Philadelphia. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1952, and served our country during the Korean War. While living in Albuquerque, N.M., he met the love of his life, Barbara. They wed in 1981 and their incredible love story began. It was also at this time he became a loving stepdad to Barbara’s three children.

Bill’s love for Barbara was that of a powerful, deep love. He treasured her with everything he had and reminded her daily of his love. It was a love of loyalty, friendship, compassion, tenderness and caring. Their hands and hearts were made for each other as they walked together through life’s journey. They were an exceptional example of how a marriage should be.

The love that he gave to his children showed acceptance, guidance, support, patience and kindness. His grandchildren were a special love in his life. “PopPop” gave his gifts of love to these young ones, and they were thrilled and eager to spend time with him. Their connection and love was so extraordinary and will be truly missed. Words cannot express what an impact he had on his family.

He had great pride and joy in the kitchen, where he was known for his cooking talents. His secret ingredient was always love. He really enjoyed the doing and sharing of this. He was also an avid reader, especially history and mystery novels. Second to his joy of cooking was baseball. He played in his early years, and loved watching or listening to the game. He also enjoyed listening to the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Andrea Bocelli, along with watching classic movies.

Bill and Barbara traveled all around the world, seeing magical places and meeting new friends. They spent time in Arizona where he enjoyed the friendships they created, the activities, such as watching the Mariners at spring training, potlucks and many other ongoing events at the park where they lived. He was praised there for his holiday turkeys enjoyed by many, with his sidekick best-around-gravy-maker, Barbara. He was easy to get along with and jumped right in along with any fun, goofy activities, making it always a pleasure to be around. As one friend said, “He was an instigator for goodness.” Bill’s tall, strong frame lit up any room that he walked into. He was known for extreme politeness, friendly and energetic conversation, big engulfing hugs, unconditional love, and being a kind and attentive listener. His kind, gentle nature will be sorely missed.

Bill leaves behind his adoring wife of 26 years, Barbara; children, Kris Armstrong of Boise, Winston Welch of Hawaii, Kim Welch of Washington, Sharon Gutsche and Debra Dreger of Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Shelby (Sparky) Welch, Amanda (Tater) Armstrong, and Jonathan and Alison Gutsche; brother Francis and wife Margie Dreger; sister Betty and husband Russ McClanagan; many nieces and nephews; and friends from around the world.

Bill leaves a legacy that we just simply cannot express with words. He is, and always will be, our cherished one, as a devoted and loving husband, dad, PopPop, uncle, father-in-law and friend. To continue in our life without him, will be a journey we truly wish we did not have to take.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Wednesday, July 2, at 1 p.m. at Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor, followed by military honors. There will be a gathering at their home following the service.

The family suggests that donations may be given to the Bill Dreger Baseball Scholarship Fund established to aid underprivileged children with equipment and financing to be able to play baseball in school or organized leagues. Donations can be made at any Whidbey Island Bank branch. Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel. Bill’s friends and family may go online at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com and sign Bill’s online guest book.