William Richard Cleeland Sr.

ESTES PARK - William “Bill” Richard Cleeland, Sr., 79, of Estes Park entered into heaven on April 1, 2024 after bravely battling several serious illnesses. He was surrounded by his family and their love at a Longmont, Colorado hospital.

Bill was born on August 22, 1944, to Richard Cleeland and Eleanor (McCandless) Cleeland in Butler, Pennsylvania. The family lived also lived in Ohio before settling in Kankakee, IL.

He attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where he met true love and best friend, Patricia “Pat” Stage, marrying her on September 18, 1965 in Rockford, Illinois. They were blessed to be married for more than 58 years, and had two children, Leah and William Jr.

After serving in the Army Reserves, he joined aerospace and machining business Precision Masters, Inc. in 1968. In 1980, he became co-owner and President until selling the company and retiring in 2015. Despite being retired, he enjoyed contracting part-time for Precision Masters until early 2024.

Bill loved the life he created in Colorado with his wife, children, and Boston Terriers. He was a kind and generous man who enjoyed hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, kayaking, and taking long walks with his dogs. He loved a good meal out with his family, but also made the world’s best spaghetti. A devout Lutheran, his strong faith included a belief in eternal life through Jesus Christ and that our best days are yet to come. He was always optimistic and made friends wherever he went – especially in Estes Park, the last community he called home.

Bill is survived by his wife, daughter, son, grandpup Charlie, and many dear relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and pups Bart, Jake, Teddy, and Gus. Most recently, he lost his beloved younger brother Mac in January who was another courageous fighter against tough odds.

There will be a private Celebration of Life held in Estes Park at a later date.

“…Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” - John 16:22