William "Bill" M. Blaney

William M. Blaney

William M.(Bill) Blaney, age 84 passed away March 30 in Fort Collins, Colo., after a lengthy illness. Graveside Services and burial were held April 7 at Lake Havasu Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Blaney was born March 29, 1924 at his aunt's home in Ophir, Colo., He grew up near Manville where his parents worked on farms and ranches in the area. He graduated from Manville High School in 1942. Bill joined the United States Army Air Force in April 1943 and became an airplane mechanic in California. He was honorably discharged in February 1946. He was awarded the American Service Medal, the WW II Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Bill married Audrey Maddox on July 16, 1960. They lived in Los Angeles where he worked as a mechanic in the food industry. After their retirement they moved to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Bill's work there included mechanic work at the golf course and making souvenirs from materials from the London Bridge. Bill loved to work with his hands and began making birdhouses from his home. In Lake Havasu he was known as "Birdhouse Bill". He liked to travel and enjoyed his family and friends.

After the death of his wife he returned to Torrington. He moved to Colorado when he became ill. He is survived by his nieces and nephews and their families: Dixie and Winston Slider of Chugwater; Doug and Darlene Blaney, Carr, Colo.; Delbert Blaney, Browning, Mont.; Velinda and Joe Malone, Chadron, Nebr.; Debra Jacobs, Worland; Roka Blaney, Colorado Springs, Colo.; Samual Blaney, Lusk; Lavelda Wickwire, Casper; and Betty Lewis, Seattle.

He is also sadly missed by several life long friends from California, Arizona and Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his wife, Audrey, in 1999, his parents, sister Mae Hoyt and brothers Robert Blaney and Clifford Blaney.

Memorial Services will be held at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Lusk Senior Citizens Center, 611 E. 6th Avenue, Lusk, WY 82225.

Arrangements were placed under the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory. Condolences and thoughts can be made to his family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.

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