In your honor, I have donated native Hawaiian trees to be planted so that endangered native birds can continue to multiply here on the island. The Maui Forest Birds project hosts this transformative program. You will be making a difference here in Hawaii. Sending Aloha 🌺🌈🕊

Never have I seen such grace and peace from someone facing what you are. It's the love that surrounds you, but it's you Bill. You are some kind of guy. Many blessings to you as you walk this path. May you find comfort in knowing those you leave behind will carry you in their hearts forever. Love is all that matters, and it is eternal.

Bill, I’ve only met you once at the 2013 Midwest Birding Symposium. I have been an avid, if discreet, fan of yours since meeting Julie at a talk in Washington DC at the National Zoo in 2006. You both have led such incredibly rich lives. Seriously, lives that most people can only dream of living. In the end, I think most of us hope we’ve left a positive impact on this world. You have done that in spades! I wish for you a peaceful and painless journey. And I wish for peace and comfort to your family. Heartfelt thanks, from a grateful Possumlady.

Met you at Geoff’s with his mom (my sister) at New River Birding week a few years back. The Rain Crows were a great addition. My inaugural birding event was a highlight of my life. Aunt Marcy sends her deep respect and affection to you and yours. My heart hurts for all you will miss and all we will miss not having you among us. What a remarkable run you’ve had! Would that we could all leave such a legacy.

what strength you have. so impressed. such a joy that you share. love from far away and a near stranger.
Cecilia Riley

You were such a strong influence in our class of 1980. You’ve always been so talented! At the last class reunion I attended, you had the first digital camera I’d ever seen. It’s wonderful to see the outpouring of love towards you & your family. Wish we could be in Marietta for the reunion. Our hearts break, but our thoughts & prayers will continue to be with you, your business, your many friends & your family.
Penny O’Neill aka Penny Landau (Golden, CO)

YOU, Bird Watchers Digest, Lakeside Birding Weeks, etc. got me started on one of my first Bucket Lists in retirement in 1997!!!! Your witty inspirations still keep me enjoying birding as I enter year #84!!!! Luckily I live near Shaker Lakes Nature Center and Julie West to keep me continually informed in "the bird world!" As a 2 time cancer survivor AND lovingly nursing my husband as he struggled with cancer, I can relate 100% to your present situation. I send my caring, support in spirit and love to you and your family. Thank you for sharing!!!! AND FOR ALL WAYS THAT YOU CONTINUE TO INSPIRE ME. Joanne Gillis, Shaker Heights, Ohio

I've only met you once Bill but you sure left your impression! You are a sweet wonderful fun loving guy and my heart hurts for you!
Thank you for sharing your love and honesty with all of us. I can't imagine what you must be going through. Love and prayers!

Not ready to say goodbye to you yet Bill. But just want to thank you for being you! Soon God will raise you up on eagles wings..................and hold you in the palm of his hand. Squeeze every ounce of joy you can out of these last days. You are loved my friend!

Bill, as you know, your dad hired me to work for him at Marietta College in 1995. He changed the trajectory of my life. He told me nearly every day that hiring me was the best thing he had ever done. And he talked about his family. Every day. I got to know you even better through your dad and his stories and the way he spoke of you with pride and love. So much love.