William Donald Brethauer

William Donald Brethauer, 79, of Yuma passed away Wednesday, August 15, 2018 at his home. 

Bill was born November 7, 1938 to William and Marion (Schmaling) Brethauer in Greeley, CO.  He graduated from Wiggins High School in 1956 and then attended the University of Colorado at Boulder for 2 years before joining the Army on February 9, 1959.  Bill was a paratrooper in the XVIII Airborne Corp out of Fort Bragg and received a good conduct medal, parachutist badge, and letter of commendation upon discharge on April 4, 1962.  William continued in the Army Reserves until January 31, 1965.   He married Bonnie J. Stoll on November 22, 1964, and they later divorced.  To this marriage 3 daughters were born, Julie Ann, Sheryl Kay, and Cynthia Mae.

Bill was employed primarily as a farmer his entire life, raising corn, pinto beans, and sugar beets.  He was an avid gun collector and participated in Old Threshers from its inception in 1986 through 2015. Bill enjoyed showing and discussing his antique and military firearms, as well as the family arrowhead and fossil collection.  He was show director for the Old Threshers organization from 2002-2007, a board member for 21 years, and a member for 38 years.  Many special memories were had in Zapata, Texas, in the 70s and 80s, where Bill would hunt arrowheads and fossils with his family.  He also enjoyed hunting, bowling, and spending time with his grandchildren. Many will tell you that Bill had an amazing memory and could readily provide detailed historical information.

Survivors include his daughters Julie Strand of Akron, CO, Sheryl (Rick) Schroth of Greeley, CO and Cynthia (Tim) Held of Denver, CO.  Grandchildren include Maggie (Mike) Werner, Matthew Strand, Mick (Miranda) Strand, Marty Strand, Haley Schroth, Justin Schroth, Paige Held, and Kaylee Held.  Great grandchildren include Kolton Strand, Konnor Strand, and Bryson Strand.  Surviving sisters are Lauren (Don) Brantner of LaSalle, CO, and Jeanette (Jim) Anderson of Greeley, CO.  There are also numerous surviving nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents William and Marion Brethauer and a brother John Robert Brethauer. 

Service will take place at Baucke Funeral Home, 128 S Ash St, Yuma, CO, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 22, 2018, with interment following at the Yuma Cemetery.  Reverend Scott Bieker is officiating the service and Baucke Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Old Threshers or the Yuma VFW.

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