Obituary of Willis Edward Peacock

Bill, Robin’s “precious husband” died March 16, 2012 as a result of numerous and lengthy health issues. He was born in Pennsylvania, and attended school in the New Castle, PA, graduating from New Castle High School. During WWII, he attended numerous schools throughout the United States as a result of his father’s various assignments. When the family returned to New Castle, “Bill” became very active in the community, including his church & Boy Scouts, and in his grandparents’ lives and care. In Boy Scouts he was a camp counselor and earned his Eagle Scout & Order of the Arrow awards. He was also elected “Mayor for a Day” in New Castle. He attended College of Puget Sound, where he was an active leader in collegiate activities. He belonged to Phi Sigma Biological Society, and was president of Sigma Nu Fraternity for four years & Interfraternity Council President for three years. Bill was chosen for publication in “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges ®” for 1953-1954. Bill also received the Ralph Olson Memorial trophy in 1954. He graduated with a BS degree. Next, Bill went on to the University of Oregon Medical School, graduating in 1959. He married in 1954 and during his time in medical school became the father of three children. He worked part-time and put himself through medical school, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed. His grandfather had been an M.D. in Butler, PA. He entered the USAF in 1958 as a 2nd Lt., later becoming a Captain. His service included work as a flight surgeon, and also in biological warfare. He attended the School of Aerospace Medicine at Brooks Air Force Base in Texas, and became Commander at 464 TAC Hospital at Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina. He also located to Deseret Test Center in Fort Douglas, UT and Hill Air Force Base, also in Utah. He received his honorable discharge in 1966. He began his private practice as a Board Certified Family Practice Physician in 1964, first in Beaverton, OR and then in nearby Aloha, OR. In 1975, he served as Chief of Staff at Physicians & Surgeons Hospital in Portland. He completed his family practice after working at it for 25 years. He next served as Medical Director at clinics in Salem & Portland. In 1993, he joined Northwest Permanente, PC (Kaiser) and worked in Occupational Health, until medical retirement ten years later. He thoroughly enjoyed his time and work at Kaiser. Bill was single for 16 years before marrying Robin Hill in 1993. Bill & Robin met at the church where they would eventually have their family wedding, with the reception in the room where they had originally met. As his proud wife, Robin wished to share the following: “I believe God brought us together, and God “loaned” this wonderful husband to me, and now God has called him back. Bill was an extremely gentle, kind soul.” Bill’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to all the Kaiser staff who did their very best to keep Bill comfortable. Also, an extra-special thank you to Bill’s caregiver “angels” Kiyoko & Ica and their staff, and the staff at GENTOG of Tigard (Day Care for Toddlers & Grandparents). Bill & Robin became a part of that special, adopted family; prior to their help Robin was his only caregiver at home and they became lifesavers. Bill, true to his good nature, thoroughly enjoyed his time there as well. A Celebration of Life for Bill, followed by an Ice Cream Social, will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at New Hope Community Church, 11731 SE Stevens Road, Portland, OR 97086. A private service with full military honors will be held at Willamette National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider making a charitable donation to Oregon Food Bank and/or Loaves & Fishes. Arrangements by Crown Memorial Center – Tualatin.