William Hodder January 5, 1948 – September 9, 2024

Buckley — John 15:13: “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” William “Bill” Hodder, 76, passed away on September 9, 2024, in Buckley, WA. Born in Seattle on January 5, 1948, Bill was the firstborn of two sons to Ambros and Edna Hodder. For his first 15 years, Bill grew up in Lake City.

Later, Bill and his brother Tom moved to Wilkeson with their Aunt and Uncle which brought them back to the area of their father’s upbringing in South Prairie. Bill attended White River High School and graduated in 1966. He then attended Western Washington University in Bellingham, graduating in 1971.

In 1972, Bill married his college sweetheart Kathy.

Bill dedicated 38 years as a history and drafting teacher at White River High School. His commitment extended beyond the classroom as he also coached Track and Field, inspiring multiple generations of athletes to reach their athletic goals. He loved White River and continued to work athletic game control after he retired.

Bill’s love of local history was passed on to his own children. He documented the Hodder family history in South Prairie as well as his second home of Wilkeson including the stone quarry.

Bill is survived by his three children: Andy Hodder and his wife Michael Ann; Jenny Scott and her husband Jesse; and Tim Hodder and his wife Carli. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Ashytn and Wyatt Hodder; Brad and Will Scott; and Eli Hodder. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathy in 2024 and his only brother Tom in 2022. Bill peacefully entered his eternal glory with Jesus with a smile on his face.

A public memorial service will be held on Monday, September 30, from 12-4 PM at the Buckley Eagles. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to White River High School’s Track and Field program. Checks should be addressed to White River High School, with the memo line “Track and Field,” and mailed to PO Box 1683, Buckley, WA 98321. Go Hornets!