William E. Urness, 73, of Leeds, ND,  died Tuesday, August 20th, 2013, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Fargo.  Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, August 24th, 2013, at the Leeds Lutheran Church with Pastor Michael Pretzer officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.  Military Honors will be accorded by the Robert Tovsrud VFW Post #757 of Harlow, ND.  Casket Bearers will be:  Bryce Urness,  Michael Urness,  Thomas Urness,  Ben Harkness,  Casey Harkness and Daniel Harkness.  Honorary bearers are Greg Urness,  Kevin Urness,  Jeff Urness,  Joe Urness,  Mark Barnhouse,  Eric Ahmann,  Justin Ahmann,  Kermit Johnson,  Lloyd Himle and Ritterman Trucking.  Visitation will be Saturday at the church from noon until the time of service.

William Eric Urness was born May 2, 1940 in Leeds, ND, the 6th child of Francis Jean (Fox) and Clarence E. Urness.  Bill graduated from Leeds Public schools in 1958 and proudly served in the U.S. Army, two enlistments with tours in Germany and Vietnam.  After he returned from Vietnam, he and Sue Williams were married and later divorced.

Bill worked many years in the long-haul trucking industry including as an independent owner/operator. Upon his retirement, he moved back to Leeds and spent time with friends and family. Bill was a sports enthusiast, enjoying all sports and was a fan of UND Hockey and NASCAR.

He is survived by his brothers:  Reginald (Roselynn) Urness of Grand Forks, ND,  Dale (Marilyn) Urness of Leeds and Clarence "Clar" (Tiffany) Urness of Sacramento, CA;  many nieces and nephews;  his close friends:  Kermit (Marge) Johnson of Sturgis, SD and Sue's daughters:  Kathy and Deborah, both of CO.  He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters:  Ardell Olson and Jean Urness.



Condolences:

Well, "Wild Bill", that was quite a road trip, huh? You did your best to live life to the fullest and you certainly touched many lives. Everyone was proud of your military service and the sacrifices you made for your country even though you very rarely talked about any specific events. I know you were always restless so now you can rest in peace, friend! Dexter & I will always remember you. To all of the family, sending deepest sympathy and hugs to you all, Jan & Dexter Lee