William DeShazer

William E. DeShazer 82, a lifelong resident of the Kootenai Valley passed away Sept. 1, 2015, after losing his battle with asbestosis and lung cancer. Bill was born July 27, 1933, in Rexford to Olen and Edna DeShazer. He was born the eldest of six children. Bill grew up in the Libby and Rexford area, where he grew to love the Kootenai Valley. Bill had a full life.  

He served in the U.S. Army from 1955 until 1957, where he was stationed in Korea.

Bill was an avid hunter and fisherman and would spend his time hiking and fishing in the Cabinet Mountains. He was always willing to share his fishing bounty with friends and family.  Bill was known for his many trophies won with his archery and billiard skills. In 1959, he was wed to Betty Peebler.  

Starting in Rexford, Bill worked as a logger for many years. In 1963, he moved to Libby with his family and continued logging for the J. Neils Company, St. Regis and Champion International. After retirement Bill remained active in the community by volunteering with the VFW and the senior center.

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty DeShazer and daughter Michele Bats.

Bill’s passing will leave a hole in the community and he will truly be missed.

Bill is survived by his son Michael DeShazer of Columbia Falls, daughter Valarie Kaufman of Frankfurt, Germany and Ann Moser of Renton, Wash.;  his two brothers Daniel DeShazer of Libby, and Robert DeShazer of Eureka, six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and 1 great- great-grandchild.

A small family service will be held in the spring. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Crematory in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.