Bill Blum passed away March 3, 2015 at the age of 88. He was born in Winlock, Wash., on Aug. 25, 1926, to William and Ruth Blum. He joined the U.S. Navy at 17 and served on the Destroyer USS John Rodgers. He returned to Winlock after his service and married Myrtle Burnett on Oct. 6, 1947. They stayed in Winlock and raised their family.

Bill began to work as a timber faller and sawyer, and became general manager for Holman Lumber Company in Napavine after a number of years. He retired from Hemphill-O'Neill Lumber Company in Chehalis where he was executive vice president and land and timber manager. After his retirement, he raised Christmas trees and was the proud owner of the Wagon Tire Ranch.

He was very involved in both the State and Grand Aerie of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and was a life member. He served as Grand Worthy President in 1997-1998 for the order. Bill was also a 50-year member of the Free and Accepted Masons and the Order of the Eastern Star. He was a past Master of Winlock lodge and a past Rainbow Dad for Winlock and Centralia assemblies. He was a member of the American Legion.

Bill was an avid fisherman, enjoyed hunting, and picking huckleberries. He loved to be around his large and extended family. He is survived by his wife, Myrtle of Centralia; his son, Robert (Lorraine) Blum of Olympia; his grandchildren: Cindy Barcomb, Mike (Jamie) Wallin, and Marcy (Jay) Bryant; and great grandchildren: Brennan, Tegan, Kennedy, Madison, Tyler, Cianan, Tanner, William, and Catriona. He is also survived by brothers Donald (Diane) Blum, Michael (Betsy) Blum; and sisters Carol Rutherford, Rose (Doug) Walker, and Dorothy (Tony) Pule.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, March 11, 2015, at 1 p.m. at Winlock Cemetery. A gathering will be held to celebrate his life immediately following at the Winlock Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Cattermole Funeral Home in Winlock.