William "Bill" Clive Wiltbank

William Clive Wiltbank, 85, passed away Sunday, January 12, 2025 peacefully with his children by his side at his home in Richville, Arizona; his family’s beloved ranch. He was born April 12, 1939 to H. Clive and Melba Richey Wiltbank in Eagar, Arizona.

Bill attended school in Round Valley and loved to play football. He had many acquaintances that became lifelong friends. After graduating he attended college at ASU. While attending a dance he met a beautiful young lady named Carlene Lamb from Gilbert, Arizona, who stole his heart. After a brief courtship they were soon engaged.

Returning to visit home he knew he needed to postpone the wedding and go on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, of which he was a lifelong member. He served a two-year mission to the Northern States Mission, primarily California. He credited this as being his best decision, second to marrying Carlene. They were married June 15, 1960. From this union four children were born: Kerri Joy Wiltbank Clement, Richville; William Barton (Rachel) Wiltbank, Richville; Brian Clive (Ginger) Wiltbank, Richville; and Kamille (Erick) Wiltbank Wright, Thatcher. They added 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was a loving father and grandfather sharing his values, words of wisdom and never-ending teasing.

He worked for his father building homes, but his love for trucks took him in a different direction.He started his own business in concrete. Later he bought a semi-truck, hauling cattle and freight. He sold his trucks and went to work for Apache County, retiring as building inspector.

After the death of his wife he married Karen Merrill. Together they served a mission in Nauvoo, Illinois. He enjoyed this very much, driving as a teamster and working with the draft horses while sharing his knowledge of church history. His love of the gospel of Jesus Christ was first and foremost the foundation of his life.

Bill served in many callings, including Bishop of the Eagar 2nd Ward, but his favorite calling was as a temple ordinance worker. Evening time he was often found lying in bed studying the Book of Mormon.

We will miss his daily calls “from the Pest”. Bill was a friend to all, loved his wife and family devotedly and delighted in his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His favorite quote he shared with his family was “Safely dead with your testimony (of Jesus Christ) intact.” No truer statement can describe Bill.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Carlene Lamb Wiltbank and siblings, Milford Wiltbank and Diana Wiltbank.

The family would like to thank Accord Hospice, especially Denise Wilkins for the compassionate care given to Bill.

A viewing will be held Friday, January 17, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Burnham Mortuary, Eagar. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Springerville building, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow the services at the Eagar Cemetery.