William Otto Vineyard, also known by family and friends as “Bill”, was born on July 19, 1927 in Belgrade, Missouri, a son of the late Otto F. Vineyard and Inice G. (Dickey) Vineyard. Bill departed this life peacefully on Wednesday evening, August 16, 2023 at the age of 96. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his loving and beautiful wife, Marilyn Vineyard; grandson, Jason W. Vineyard; sister, Cleo (Vineyard) Thorpe; and many other dear relatives.
Those who remain to cherish his memory include his four children: William F. (Linda M.) Vineyard, James E. (Kimberly S.) Vineyard, Dennis W. Vineyard, and Pamela S. Vineyard; eight grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; sister, Pat (Vineyard) Krieger (husband, Ron); and two sisters-in-law: Shirleen Snyder and Carole Dickey. Bill also leaves behind many special nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
Bill was very outgoing. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Bill was a WWII Veteran. Bill met the love of his life, Marilyn Snyder and married her on February 7, 1947 and they shared 71 years of life and memories together. Bill was employed with McDonnell Douglas until his retirement around 1986. He and Marilyn were longtime members of Belgrade United Methodist Church. Among the many things Bill enjoyed, a few of his favorite adventures were taking trips in his motor home all over the U.S., camping, boating, and fishing. In addition, Bill and Marilyn also enjoyed many trips with the bank club and local friends traveling to other countries as well as cruises. He was a member of the Belgrade Masonic Lodge then later merged with the TYRO Lodge of Caledonia. Bill had a love for old music. While living in Florida, he played guitar and bass with various groups and venues. Bill also played with the church praise band. Bill touched many lives immensely and the love for him will remain in our hearts forever.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 25, 2023 from 5 to 8 pm at DeClue Funeral Home. A Masonic Service will be held during the visitation at 6:30 pm.
Visitation will resume on Saturday, August 26th, from 10 am until the time of his Funeral Service at 11 am at Belgrade Methodist Church. Interment and final prayers will be held at Sunlight Cemetery, Belgrade, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Belgrade Methodist Church Men’s Group. Memorial envelopes will be available at the visitation.
DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have cared for and served the family and friends of Mr. Bill Vineyard.