William “Bill” Jay Foster, 72, of Dell Rapids passed away Thursday, April 11, 2013 at home surrounded by his family and friends. A final farewell and celebration of life will be held as an open house at the Dell Rapids Legion Hall May 4, 2013 from 5:00 to 10:00 PM. Bill wanted no “weeping and wailing” over his leaving. He hoped for joy, laughter and sharing memories.
Bill was born August 30, 1940 in Sioux Falls to parents Earl “Buzz” and Mary Ellen (Moran) Foster. He graduated from Cathedral High School in 1958. On May 4, 1963 Bill married Carol Sward in Dell Rapids. He was employed by John Morrell and Company for 41 years, retiring in 2006.
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Carol; daughters, Deb Foster and Jill (Barry) Mark; sons; Billy (Sonja) Foster and Joe (Kerri) Foster; grandchildren, Eric, Sean, Noah and Cassidy; sister, Pat Sward; brother, Dale (Vikki) Foster; aunts, Peg Nieber and Pat Nelson; a host of other relatives and friends and his faithful four legged friends, Ranger and Sadie. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Art, Jim and Bob (Buzz); sister, Carol Pennington and brother-in-law, Terry Sward.