William Lyerly Biber, 75, died in the early morning hours of July 5, 2026, at his home in Clive, Iowa. William (“Bill”) was born on May 21, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa. Bill’s life took a meaningful turn when his mother, Jacqueline, married Sheldon Biber, who later adopted him and embraced him wholeheartedly as his own son. Bill embraced Sheldon as his father and until the end sought his guidance.

Bill was educated in the Des Moines School system. He was a lifetime learner studying formally and informally, striving to learn something new every day. Bill was a voracious reader with interests in literature, philosophy, archeology, history, and politics. He studied and spoke Hebrew, as well as Spanish.

Before his retirement, Bill worked as a musician, mortgage banker, writer, and restaurant/bar manager. He enjoyed his younger days of riding motorcycles and surfing. He enjoyed traveling and camping. Bill deeply appreciated nature and exploring mountains and deserts. His love of nature extended to caring for domesticated as well as wild animals. Bill also rescued several dogs, including a blue heeler, Rosie, who became his constant companion.

He will be remembered for his compassion, humor, engaging personality, political commentary, and love for his wife, Danielle. A special memory for Bill was their wedding day on May 4, 2025.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Jacqueline Biber, brother David Biber, and biological father, William Gardner. He is survived by his father, Sheldon Biber; his wife, Danielle Foster-Smith; daughters Tauri Fuller and Jordan Kauffman; son Nick Biber; stepson, Travis Wells; brothers Aaron Biber and Rabbi Binyamin Biber (Catherine Sheehy); his sisters Mary Gardner Pratt (Shannon Pratt) and Tina Richards. He also leaves behind a host of extended family and friends.

William’s family thanks the doctors and nurses at Mission Cancer + Blood and EveryStep Hospice for their compassionate care for him in the most recent weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Orchard Place and the Des Moines Animal Rescue League