Beloved Coupeville Resident, Bill Grasser, Passes Away Surrounded by Family
In a heartfelt moment on the morning of August 7th, 2023, the cloudy sky parted, and rays of light illuminated Bill Grasser as he peacefully departed this world, surrounded by his loving family. Bill, a well-known figure in the tight-knit community of Coupeville, Washington, was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather. His warm spirit and caring nature will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on August 11th, 1938 in Anacortes, WA, Bill was raised in San De Fuca and attended Coupeville Schools. He built his life in Coupeville after marrying Sylvia Arline Coates on November 25th, 1960. Together, they raised a beautiful family in Sylvia’s family home perched on the hill.
Bill’s career began in the Coast Guard before he transitioned to working on a tugboat as a Wiper for Shell Oil Company. He thoroughly enjoyed his time on the water, delivering fuel up and down the West Coast. As years passed and he and Sylvia welcomed children into their lives, Bill sought employment closer to home. In his younger days, he logged on Whidbey Island and worked with Libby’s Construction for a period. Later, he became a heavy equipment operator for Lakeside Industries, from which he retired in his mid-50s. Retirement didn’t slow Bill down; he found fulfillment driving for local farmers and eventually became a part-time trucker with Skagit Valley Trucking, enjoying the task of hauling produce.
When Bill wasn’t dedicating his time to work, he reveled in the joy of being a grandfather to his ten grandchildren. He cherished each moment spent with them. His other passion in life was riding his beloved motorcycle, which he rode with great enthusiasm. Additionally, Bill made it a priority to maintain a close connection with his childhood friends, always ensuring their wellbeing.
Bill Grasser is survived by his children, Marie (Ron) Bagby, Michele Fournier, and Dean (Sherra) Grasser, who will continue to honor his memory. He also leaves behind a legacy of ten grandchildren: April Ellsworth, Ashley Heilig, Craig Fournier, Michael Bagby, Crystal Hurley, Jason Bagby, Tyler Grasser, Erika Sather, Emmy Grasser, and Lance Sather. To celebrate his life and pay tribute to his remarkable journey, a graveside service will be held at Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville, WA, on Sunday, August 20th, at 11 am. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will commence at 1 pm at the Grasser Homestead. Family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing Bill are encouraged to come and share cherished memories and heartfelt condolences.
Despite the heartbreak caused by Bill’s passing, his family finds solace knowing he has reunited with his beloved wife Sylvia, his late daughter Marlene Grasser, and his brother Howard Grasser, who preceded him in death.
In remembrance of Bill Grasser’s extraordinary life, his family kindly invites all who wish to honor his memory to visit www.whidbeymemorial.com, where memories and condolences can be shared.
Bill Grasser’s presence in Coupeville will forever be missed, but his legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
