Joshua 10:41-42, NIV William James Wiese, known to all who loved him as “Bill,” passed away on March 6, 2025, at the age of 78 in Arizona. Born on January 11, 1947, in Minot, North Dakota, Bill was the son of Helyne and James “Jim” Wiese.
Bill spent his early years between Minot, Drake, Powers Lake, Drayton, North Dakota and Great Falls and Broadus, Montana as his father worked as an administrator in education. Bill graduated from Drayton High School in 1965, where he was a standout athlete, excelling in football, basketball and baseball. His passion for sports continued into his college years, playing football at North Dakota State University (NDSU). Bill graduated from NDSU in 1970 with a degree in Pharmacy.
Bill worked as a pharmacist in Bloomington, MN, Langdon, ND, Fargo, ND and Phoeniz, AZ.
Throughout his life, Bill remained an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying activities like golf, hunting, and snow skiing. His love for sports extended to watching and attending multiple sporting events. Sports was a big part of Bill’s life.
In 1968, Bill married Julie Norling, and together they had two children, John William Wiese (“Johnny”) and Laura Smith Wiese of Littleton, Colorado. Although Julie and Bill later divorced, Bill took enormous pride in being the father of Johnny and Laura. Bill was deeply affected by the loss of his son Johnny, who passed on July 31, 1988.
Bill loved sunny Arizona and had an adventurous spirit. But more than anything, he cherished spending time and traveling with his daughter, Laura. Laura and Bill had a very special bond, and Laura was right by her father’s side, as he took his last breath.
In addition to his son, Johnny, Bill was proceeded in death by his parents, Helyne and James Wiese and his nephew, Kevin John Boe. Bill is survived by his daughter, Laura, his sisters Jane (Danny) Mostad and Karen (John) Boe, his grandson, Dustin Differding, and a host of family and friends who will deeply miss his presence.