Saturday, April 14, 2012

Bill's Obituary

Bill Geist, 60, died peacefully on April 12, 2012 at his home in Tempe, Arizona with family and friends by his side. He left behind his loving wife and partner, Jacki Jones and his loving daughter, Kate Stevens. His immediate family living in Kansas includes his mother, Phyllis Rowland; and siblings: Gina Ramsey, Shane Geist, and Susan Arnold. He now joins his sister Robin Geist-Wick and his father, Gene Geist. Bill was born on January 7th, 1952 in Scott City, Kansas. He graduated from Scott Community High School and went on to be an avid Wildcats fan, as a Bachelor of Sociology graduate from Kansas State University (1975). He moved to Arizona after graduation and did numerous jobs in social services working with troubled children, most notably at Big Brothers of Arizona. He also found a calling as a recruiter, where he was recognized with dozens of awards. Bill found joy in this occupation as he could find amazing people to work in the healthcare and automotive industries, in hopes that it would lead to earth-friendly and humanitarian benefits. As many know, we cannot talk about Bill without mentioning his devotion to recovery and his support network. His life truly began when he found recovery. Bill always had a hug for the newcomer, words for those who were in need, a listening ear, and a welcoming spirit. He held several service positions over his 18 years of clean time and was a source of strength and hope to many. When he was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, he continued serving by volunteering for cancer treatments at both early and late stages of research. The service will be on Saturday, April 21st, at 1 - 5 p.m., at Phoenix First Congregational United Church, 1407 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004. In lieu of flowers, practice the seventh tradition, send a newcomer to ARCNA, donate to a charity benefiting children, or contribute to the charity of your choice. Bill would want to remind you that “Live is Good.”

10 comments:

  1. Beautiful, and all so true of him. He had such a big heart and spirit. He will truly be missed by many. He was a unique man, one of a kind, stronger than he realized. Bill's eyes usually had a twinkle from his constant smile, and I am sure right now he is well aware of his family's hurting, and would want them to know he is ok, free from anymore suffering, but most importantly he is happy and peaceful and there with those who miss him.

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  2. Dearly and deeply missed.

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  3. Bill wanted to love more truly right to the end. Much love for him and and appreciation for his desire to cultivate love, compassion and understanding in the midst of ravaging illness and challenging conditions. A powerful example of the program at it's very best. Peace.

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  4. My buddy
    My your path continue thru love....

    namaste'

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  5. Bill,
    I didn't know you for very long, but I cant but think of all the kind words you always had for me and the wonderful hugs you gave throughout the beginning of my recovery. I hope you know how much you touched the lives of those around you, even if we all didn't tell you. You truly did make a impact on my life and I will always be forever grateful. I hope you are in peace and know you are truly missed. Thank you for being the light in the rooms of recovery.

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  6. Indeed. Someone should make their departed family member a memorial page on
    obituaries so that they will still be able to see their loveones memento here on the internet for all time.

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  7. Miss your shining presence everyday! I love you Bill Gee! You are were my heart & soul mate. Till we meet again, love forever and always! your bwe

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  8. Just thinking of you buddy
    big heart full of love and deep bow to your spirit

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  9. I'm so grateful for men like you and Ham to lead the way for recovery and be true gentlemen. Thank you for being kind & gentle.
    I miss you and Ham.
    Grateful that you brought Jackie into my life.
    hugs

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