William "Bill" Cornell passed away suddenly on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009. He was born to Charles and Lulu Cornell on March 5, 1920 in Medora. He grew up along with his three brothers, Ted, John, and Don, and two sisters, Mary and Martha on the family ranch in Medora. As he grew up he became known as the toughest 'son of a gun' around those parts. Bill's mother taught him how to play the guitar, and he spent a few years as a traveling musician at night. By day he worked for the Burlington Northern Railroad as a Signal Inspector. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII.
On July 20, 1967, he had a son, Jeff. He was the best father a boy could ask for, and always made sure that his son had everything he ever needed. He eventually came to reside in Glendive, Mont. until 2005 at which time he moved into The Golden Valley Manor in Beach. He was given excellent care by all of the staff there. In 2006 Jeff his wife Jaime and the kids, Nathan, Aaron and Hannah, moved him out to Washington to be closer to them as he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. He was placed under the wonderful care of the staff at Ashley Gardens in Mount Vernon. What a blessing it was for his family to be able to spend so much quality time with him during the last few years of his life. They spent many weekends having ice cream, cookies and coffee with Bill; as well as a few Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners with Bill at their home. His face lit up every time he saw his grandkids walk into the room. He was very proud of them. There are not enough words to express how blessed his daughter-in-law was to be able to come to know him and aid in taking care of him. Bill is a man that will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. At Bill's request there are no services being held. If you wish to do something in remembrance of Bill, please give a donation to your local Alzheimer's foundation in his name, as a cure is greatly needed.
