William Mares

William Mares, age 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 23rd surrounded by the love of his family. A proud Marine, devoted family man, faithful church member, and friend to many, William lived a life defined by service, discipline, generosity, and love for his family.

William proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps as a drill instructor, where he helped shape young Marines and carried the values of honor, commitment, and discipline throughout his life. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to serving his community through his work with the United States Postal Service, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability.

William, known to most simply as Bill, was preceded in death by loved ones including the love of his life, wife, Esther, who went home to heaven in 2000. He is survived by his children: Gloria and her husband Frank; William Jr. and his wife Danette; Daniel and his wife Michele; and Steven and his wife Angie. He was a proud grandfather to Jamie and her husband Michael, Hillary, Frank (Foofie) and his wife Rubi, Larry and his wife Danielle, Bridgette, Joshua (Slugo) and his wife Hannah, Ty, Charlee, Patience, and William III.

He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Elijah and his wife Brianna, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Paxton, Kristen, Akiana, Laneah, KyriJu, Theo, Aiden, Liam, Riley, Brennan, Maeve, Scarlett, Harper and a great-great-granddaughter baby Avoni.

Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures. In his younger years, he loved riding motorcycles and embracing the freedom of the open road. Throughout his life, he enjoyed fishing, which later included patiently baiting hooks, untangling lines, and rescuing countless lures snagged in trees and rock beds for his grandkids. He was a devoted fan of the Denver Broncos, loved camping, listening to oldies, playing the guitar, which he referred to as his “geeeetar,” and playing mariachi. Later in life, he could often be found riding his bicycle, mall-walking, shopping at Walmart, or at his favorite buffet restaurant with family and friends. In his final years Bill developed a legendary affection for Moose and filled his home with collected figurines and wall-hangings. His love of moose brought chuckles to those around him and is now a symbol of the joy, humor, and lighthearted spirit he carried throughout his final years.

Bill was an active member of his church community and found strength and purpose in his faith. He believed in helping others, showing kindness, and living a life of integrity.

Like all people, Bill’s life was not without challenges. He experienced triumphs and setbacks, joys and hardships. Through it all, he taught his family the importance of working hard, perseverance, forgiveness, and staying true to one’s values. His life reminds us that a

person’s legacy is not measured by perfection, but by the love they share, the lessons they teach, and the lives they touch.

Bill’s greatest achievement was not his military service, career, or accomplishments; it was his family and the love and legacy of 5 generations that he leaves behind.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored. Semper Fi.

A funeral service will be held 11am, Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Bohlender Funeral Chapel. Interment with military honors will immediately follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens Cemetery.