SPRINGDALE — William Gerard McQuade,

“Bill” wa s born Jan. 5, 1944, in Greenfield, Mass., to William Arthur McQuade and Kathleen June (Adams) McQuade.

After attending Arms Academy in Shelburne Falls, Mass., and St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, Bill enlisted in the Army where he attained the rank of captain and was a decorated combat helicopter pilot during Vietnam. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross, Army Commendation Medal and Air Medal.

After serving his country, Bill moved to Fort Smith, Ark., and spent the next 47 years establishing successful businesses in the pet industry including Wee Pals, Luv Happy Tails and The Whole Pet in Fort Smith and Northwest Arkansas. His compassion for animals reflected in his businesses was matched by his passion for motorcycling and the outdoors in his free time.

Bill McQuade shared his adventurous life with his devoted and patient wife of 54 years, Janet E (Fischer). Always humorous and enthusiastic, Bill will be missed by his wife, daughter Julie E McQuade-Heyes, son-inlaw Colin Heyes, grandson William Tyler McQuade, sister Kathleen Findholt and brother Michael McQuade and many others who experienced his larger than life presence.

Bill joined son William Patrick McQuade, “Mac,” for his next adventure in heaven, along with his brother, Robert McQuade, and parents on July 6, 2020.

The family will hold a private graveside service at the Fayetteville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, you may give in Bill’s memory to the Humane Society of the Ozarks online at www.hsozarks.org. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.