Emmett LeRoy "Bill" Haney, a man of honor, courage, and adventurous spirit, departed from this world on Sunday, April 14, 2023, at the age of 88. Born on February 7th, 1936, amidst a blizzard in Wynona, Oklahoma, Bill was the beloved son of Roy and Ida Ruth (Wells) Haney.
Growing up in Turley, Oklahoma, Bill's zest for life was evident from a young age. He graduated from Tulsa Central High School, where he made a mark as an active member of various clubs, including the round-up club and square dance club. His love for speed and adrenaline led him to embrace the gearhead crowd, where he never met a car he didn't want to race.
Following his high school years, Bill embarked on a remarkable journey of service to his country. He first enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve before joining the Marine Corps, where he rose through the ranks to eventually retire with the distinguished rank of Captain. Throughout his military career, Bill served with honor and valor as a cryptological officer in locations like Okinawa, Cyprus and Ethiopia. leaving an indelible mark on all who served alongside him. He learned a variety of languages such as Italian, Portuguese, and Mandarin Chinese.
In the midst of his service, Bill found love in the form of Ida Irvalene Cross. Their love story, sparked on Irvalene's 19th birthday at a humble drive-in on August 25th, blossomed into a lifelong partnership. They married on November 29, 1957, just ninety-seven days after their first encounter, and together they built a family filled with love, laughter, and adventure.
Bill and Irvalene's journey took them to Jenks, Oklahoma, where they raised their children: Scott, Lisa, and Joe. Irvalene, a dedicated City Court Clerk, supported Bill as he pursued his military career. Together, they shared a passion for adventure, embarking on RV trips across the United States and Canada. Their love for travel culminated in a memorable 50th wedding anniversary celebration in Hawaii, a place they would later again call home for five blissful years.
Though retired since 1974, Bill worked various jobs through the years. His great loves in life included family, traveling, reading, and being a Marine! Bill remained active in the Marine Corps League in addition to other veteran's organizations. Charity and philanthropy were always of the utmost importance to him.
Bill's legacy lives on through his children: Scott Haney, and wife, Pat; daughter, Lisa Kurz, and husband, Ron; son, Joe Haney; grandchildren, Daniel and wife, Renata, Jon and wife, Lindsey, Mike and wife, Ruthie, and Paul and wife, Tatum; grandson, Daris Mickle and his mom, Staci; three great-grandchildren, Waylon, Ruby, and Gawain Haney; brother-in-law, Tyson Cross and wife, Leila; niece, Robbie Plas and husband, Steve; and nephew, Ty Cross and wife, Wendy. Along with a host of other relatives and friends. He is remembered not only for his military service but also for his unwavering love and devotion to his family and friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, David; and his loving wife, Irvalene.
A funeral ceremony to honor Bill's life will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, April 20, at the Park Church of Christ. Visitation hours will take place from 4-6 PM on Friday at Bixby-South Tulsa Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society at nmcrs.org, a cause close to Emmett's heart.
Emmett LeRoy Haney will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy of love and courage lives on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.