William Woodrow Walton

William Woodrow Walton, a well-known Moses Lake businessman, went peacefully to the Lord, surrounded by his loving family Thursday, June 16.

Bill left behind his wife of 43 years, Sally (Grimlund) Walton, his daughters Marlene (Mike) Bealer and Shawn (John) Hill, grandchildren Jasmine, Zachary and Brittnay Bealer and Benjamen and Kaishen Hill and one great-grandson, Traigen.

Bill also leaves behind his sister, Barbara (Chuck) Jackson of Tacoma and brothers Maret Walton of Napa, Calif. and Rick (Sandy) Walton of Tacoma.

Bill was born Aug. 27, 1943 in Pontiac, Mich. to Wilbur W. and Betty (Clark) Walton, whom he joined in heaven.

Bill and Sally came to Moses Lake eight years ago from the Seattle area, where Bill had worked in the pulp and paper industry. They purchased Moses Lake Floral. Bill immediately immersed himself in the Moses Lake business community by joining the Moses Lake Business Association. He soon became their most active promoter and served two terms as MLBA President.

Usually accompanied by his dog friends, Bill enjoyed making deliveries from their florist shop, bringing people expressions of love. Bill would give generously to people in need. He would ask area care facilities to give him a list of people who were in need of a lift of spirits, and then deliver flowers to them anonymously.

He shared his love of kites with the community by putting on the Moses Lake Kite Festival.

Bill made many friends in Moses Lake and he will be missed.

A memorial service will be held at Moses Lake Christian Missionary Alliance Church, 1100 N. Grape Drive, at 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 20. Arrangements are in care of Benson Family Funeral Service, Chapel, Cemetery and Crematory, Moses Lake.