Bill Fromherz Obituary (1950

Albert William Fromherz Jr. (Bill), 76, of Yakima, Washington, passed away on March 30, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with illness. Born on February 11, 1950, to Albert and Margaret Fromherz, Bill was raised in a close-knit community where faith, family, and hard work shaped his early years. He attended St. Paul’s Grade School and graduated from Marquette High School before continuing his education at the University of Portland. It was there that he met Lucy Moffet of Lakeview, Oregon—a meeting that would change the course of his life. Bill earned his degree in history and went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force, with postings in Michigan, Okinawa, and California. After his military service, Bill returned home to Yakima, where he worked alongside his father on the family orchard, cultivating not only apples but a deep appreciation for the land and the rhythms of farm life. He later found a second calling as a substitute teacher in the Selah School District, where his kindness, steady presence, and sense of humor earned him lasting friendships among students and staff alike. In 1975, Bill married Lucy, and together they built a life centered on faith, and family. They raised four children—Amy (John), Adam (Korissa), Kelly (David), and Matthew—and Bill took great pride in each of them. His greatest joy, however, came in his role as “Grandpa” to Cameron, Caleb, Grace, Rockwell, and Harlee. He delighted in creating memories with them—whether exploring the Enchanted Forest, wandering through fairs and pumpkin patches, visiting Boulder Cave, or simply stopping at a favorite doughnut shop. Even after selling the farm, Bill’s dedication to teaching never waned. He continued working part-time in the classroom until the fall of 2025, always holding onto the hope that he might return. Outside of work, he found peace and happiness in the outdoors—especially in the mountains and along the shores of Rockaway Beach—and in the company of family and friends at reunions and gatherings. Bill was a man of deep and abiding faith. He was an active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, where he attended daily Mass, prayed the Rosary, and participated in parish life with devotion. He also attended retreats at Our Lady of Peace in Beaverton, Oregon, and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. His commitment to his beliefs was evident in both his words and his actions. A familiar sight to many, Bill was an avid cyclist who could often be seen riding through town—logging 20 to 40 miles a day and even commuting to teach well into his later years. He also enjoyed the mental challenge of competitive bridge, a passion he carried throughout his life. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Lucy; his children and their spouses; his cherished grandchildren, his sisters, Marylen and Suzanne; niece Irene and nephew Ted. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Memorial Hospital and Good Samaritan for the care and support they provided. A Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held on May 2, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes in Selah, Washington. The Rosary will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by Mass at 11:00 AM and a luncheon. In honor of Bill’s life and faith, the family invites donations to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1107 West Fremont Ave., Selah, WA 98942.