William M. McCord (01/10/1928 - 11/13/2009) Bill passed away Nov. 13, 2009 at age 81. He was born in San Diego Jan. 10, 1928. He spent his early years in Tacoma, but attended high school in Spokane graduating from Lewis & Clark in 1946. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Whitworth University in 1950, a Master of Science in chemistry from Oregon State College in 1959 and a Master in Education and Administration from the University of Oregon in 1961.
Bill taught high school science for 35 years, initially in Ridgefield, Wash. (from 1951 to 1958) then in Portland (Washington and Benson high schools) retiring in 1986. Bill was a gifted and popular teacher and coach. Many students kept in touch with him well after his retirement. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, gardening and baseball. He especially loved spending time with his family and wife of nearly 60 years.
Bill is remembered for his kindness, generosity, strength of character, Christian values, sense of humor, photographic memory and heartwarming smile. We cherish the time we had on earth with our dearly loved husband, father and grandfather. We are looking forward to a grand reunion with him in heaven! Psalm 116:15, John 3:16.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, William M. McCord I; and mother, Jennie McCord. He is survived by his wife, Gladys S. McCord of Bellevue, Wash.; son, William M. III, his wife, Debra and grandchildren, Matthew McCord, of Portland and Nicole Cary of Seattle; daughter, Melinda M., her husband, Timothy and grandchildren, Michael and Lindsey Larson of Bellevue. Donations in memory of William may be made to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation.