After a long and fulfilling life, Willis (Bill) Dawkins of Birch Bay, WA passed away peacefully in his sleep
in Waianae, HI surrounded by family who will feel his loss deeply. Born March 19 th , 1938 in Albion,
Nebraska he was the fourth of five children born to Willis and Alma (Weifenbach) Dawkins. He attended
Phillips, NE High School where he was active in sports and choir. He went on to join the Army and marry
Nancy Braithwaite. They had four children of their own: Richard, Rodney, Roger and Rachelle who
blessed him with several grandchildren and several more great-grandchildren that became a main focus
of his later years. His early life was dedicated to service to his country as he made the Army a 20+ year
career. During that time, he served in the Viet Nam conflict earning both a Bronze Star and a Purple
Heart. After the Army, he took great pleasure in working various places as cook/bartender at several
“local” bar and grills until he finally decided to hang up working life. In his younger years he enjoyed
camping and fishing with family as well some hunting. Later in life he was mostly dedicated to his
grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Additionally, he was a big supporter of St. Joseph’s Indian School
and The Wounded Warrior Project. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, brother Duane,
sister Delores (Reed), his oldest son Richard and grand daughter Jennifer (Dawkins). He is survived by his
sister Donna (Kolar) of Yuma Arizona, brother Robert of Grand Island, Nebraska, sons Rodney of
Brookings, SD; Roger of Waianae, HI and his only daughter Rachelle (Griese) of Hoven, SD. He also leaves
behind 9 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
Graveside service. Tuesday, June 7, 2022, 10:00a.m. @ Hawaii State Veteran Cemetery in Kaneohe, Hawaii.
Arrangements Provided By: Grace Mortuary Services, L.L.C
