"I met Bill Stern in 1946 When our family moved in across the street from his on west ninth in Ellensburg Washington. That was the start of a life-long friendship that took us thru every stage of life together. We played child hood games, "Camped out" in each other's yards, mowed yards, delivered newspapers, took the very same classes in high school, went to the same university, got the same degree. Bill and Judy went on our honeymoon with us in 1963, enjoyed dozens of vacations in our RVs, talked on the phone several times a month over a lifetime. Bill and Judy have been more like a brother and sister to me. I am very fortunate to have had such a dear friend. I will always fondly remember my friend of 78 years. R.I.P. Bill Stern, you deserve to be in Heaven and I am sure, helping whomever needs it there as you have here. Your sandbox buddy, Tony Adsley "
In loving memory of
William Michael Stern
May 1, 1941 - June 19, 2024
William "Bill" Michael Stern, born May 1, 1941 in Sunnyside Washington passed away peacefully at Evergreen Hospital in Kirkland on June 19, 2024. His parents Stanley and Genevieve moved Bill and his three younger brothers Thomas, Richard, and David to Ellensburg when they were little. While attending Ellensburg high school, Bill met the love of his life, Judith Ann Main. Bill and Judy married in August of 1961 while students at Washington State University. They raised two children Michael Anthony, and Jody Lyn (Rochelle). Bill fully enjoyed his career in sales, starting with Frederick and Nelson. He spent several years with Pacific Northwest Bell/AT&T. He started his own business building custom homes, and eventually built a career in real estate. He thrived as a real estate agent, building a reputation that kept him busy well into the last year. Although he loved working, he really enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, Katelyn "Sawyer" Rochelle, Meghan Rochelle, Trevor Stern, and Emily Stern. He told them creative stories around the campfire while on camping trips. He taught them the value of hard work, and tenacity, as well as how to fish, ride a bike, drive a car, or a motorcycle. Grandpa was a reliable source of stories and laughter, and he will be remembered for his great humor and love for his family.