William (Bill) Hutton, 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 4, 2024. Bill, a true family man and committed friend, will be dearly missed by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Bill was born August 17, 1935, at home in Towner, North Dakota, to Roy and Alice Hutton. He was raised in Towner alongside his older brother, Roy (Bud) Burton Jr. and sister, Carol, surrounded by a loving and supportive extended family, including his grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Bill attended school in Towner and graduated from Towner High School in 1953, oftentimes running a load of scrap metal for sale into nearby Minot for his father, Roy, before school in the morning.

After graduating high school, Bill attended North Dakota Agricultural College, now North Dakota State University, and graduated in 1957. During this time he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, which introduced him not only to many friends he would cherish throughout his life, but also to his future wife, Molly. Bill was introduced to Molly Bishop by her mother, affectionately known as Ma Bish, who was the fraternity’s house manager.

Following Bill’s graduation from college, he was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force, where he served for three years. During his service, Bill spent time in Texas, Nebraska, and Newfoundland proudly serving his country and meeting new people. Bill spoke fondly of his experiences serving in the Air Force throughout his life.

Bill and Molly were married on April 11,1960, at First Presbyterian Church in Fargo, ND. Shortly thereafter, the newlyweds moved back to Towner where they started their family and Bill dove headfirst into his entrepreneurial pursuits. He purchased and began operating a Phillips 66 gas station and Chrysler Plymouth Dodge dealership, conveniently located off Highway 2 in Towner, eventually building a new one car showroom and service shop, along with the Wagon Wheel Cafe. Bill’s tagline was “Your Town and Country Dealer,” and he often described this as the best time of his life. He loved being a small business owner, and, more importantly, the people he met and the lifelong friendships he built along the way.

Faith played an important part in Bill’s life and he was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church in Towner. Bill cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. He treasured spending time with his family, whether gathered around the dinner table enjoying one of Molly’s amazing meals while sharing stories and laughter, or embarking on adventures across the North Dakota countryside.

Bill will be remembered for his warm smile, his kind heart, and his unwavering dedication to those he held dear. His legacy of hard work, faith, and love will continue to inspire those who knew him. Bill valued a North Dakota work ethnic, a good conversation, and learning something new every day. Many of you would have seen him on his daily walk, rain or shine.

Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife, Molly; his parents, Roy and Alice Hutton, his brother, Bud, and sister-in-law Marilyn. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Warren Spilde of Towner, ND and his children: Sherri and her husband Bob Wenner, Wayzata MN, Scott Hutton and his wife Kara, Orono MN; and Sheila and her husband Reid Vosper, Savage MN. His seven grandchildren include: Robert (Bobby) Wenner and Lucia Rowe, living in Denver CO, Jonathan Wenner, Alexandra (Allie) Wenner, William (Will) Hutton, Alana Hutton, Kellen Vosper, and Ryan Vosper all from the Minneapolis area; and one great grandson, Robert Rowe Wenner. Bill has always been surrounded by many loving nieces and nephews who held such a special place in his heart.

A private family service will be held on February 24th. A service and celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Towner, ND on Friday, July 5th and burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zion Lutheran Church in Towner, ND in Bill’s honor or to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Though he may no longer be with us in person, Bill will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us with his love and wisdom. May he rest in eternal peace.