Willis "Bill" Samuell

Willis “Bill” Arthur Samuell

Willis “Bill” Arthur Samuell was born on July 13, 1946, to Fawn and Margaret (Burr) Samuell in Menlo, Iowa.  He also had a sister, JoAnn (Samuell) Manger and was raised in the Menlo-Scranton area.

Bill married the love of his life, Linda “Jackie” Straker, in 1968. Their son, Richard David, passed away at birth in 1970. They continued to grow their family with the birth of their son, Billy Scott, (1971), followed by their daughter, Tina Michelle, (1973). Bill and Jackie built their life together in Dawson, Iowa, where their faith was an important part of their lives and were members of the Dawson United Methodist Church.

Bill spent the last few years of his life as a resident of Independence Village, Waukee, Iowa.  He was grateful for the kindness and friendship of Ellie, the Activities Coordinator and her father who took him to a Hawkeye Wrestling event.  He was especially grateful for the professional advocacy and care he received from Brenda Rose, RN and Sonya Ackerson.  Through their care and guidance, the last decade of his life, he was able to live his last few years with integrity and autonomy.  With caring support of St. Croix Hospice, and special caregivers, Heather, Waleila and Christine, Bill went to heaven to be with his family July 28, 2026.  His last moments were accompanied by the Hawkeye Fight Song.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Fawn & Margaret Samuell, his beloved wife, Jackie, their sons Richard and Billy, and their daughter Tina.

Bill was inducted into the United States Army in 1965 and proudly served his country. He was stationed at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, for two years. He then transferred to the Army Reserve, where he served until, he was honorably discharged in 1971.

Bill retired after working for the Iowa Department of Transportation for 45 years. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes wrestling fan and cherished the memories he made through his love of wrestling.  He was especially proud of meeting Dan Gable and being a member of the Iowa Hawkeye Wrestling Club. He was also proud to serve Independence Village as “Head of Security” and “Other Duties As Assigned” by the staff.

A graveside service for Bill will be held at Dawson Cemetery on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with military graveside honors.