Obituary of William Howard Damrel

February 15, 1933 – April 29, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William Howard Damrel on April 29, 2025.

Born on February 15, 1933, in Village Mills, Texas, Bill was the beloved son of Charlton Snell Damrel, manager of the commissary for the Kirby Sawmill Company in Call, Texas, and Laura Belle Maxwell, and brother to Eugene “Pete” Damrel.

Bill loved growing up in the small town of Call, Texas, where he and his friends spent countless summer days swimming in Trout Creek, playing games like Wolf Over the River. Those carefree childhood memories

shaped his adventurous spirit.

During the Korean War, Bill was drafted and served in the coastal defense in California, a role that reflected his deep commitment to duty and country. It was there in Richmond, California, that he met the love of his life, Betty Ann Wickander, who had been raised in the Midwest. Their love story was one of devotion and adventure. After Bill's service, the couple moved to Texas, but after three months in the East Texas heat, Betty made a decisive declaration: "I'm going back to California, are you coming?" As much as Bill loved Texas, he loved Betty more, and together they returned to California, where they built a beautiful life.

On March 26, 1956, Bill and Betty were married, a partnership that would span nearly seven decades. They were blessed with three children; Mark, Jon, and Lori.  Bill was a man of deep love and dedication, always cherishing his family, sharing stories of the past, and offering a guiding hand with wisdom and warmth.

Bill’s unwavering devotion, sharp wit, and compassionate spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.