Obituary of William C. Bleeker

William C. "Bill" Bleeker, 89 of Iowa City died Saturday, February 20, 2016, at the Briarwood Health Care Center. Memorial services will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at the Newman Center in Iowa City where Sunday parking ordinance will be in effect for parking around the church. There will be a time of light refreshments and visitation following the services. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in Bill's memory to Essence of Life Hospice. Online condolences may be sent for his family through the web @ www.gayandciha.com. Bill was born May 11, 1926, in Ackley, Iowa the son of William and Mary (McMannis) Bleeker. Following graduation from Ackley High School in 1944, he enlisted with the United States Marines, serving his country during WWII. Following his military service Bill married Bonnie J. Beamsley, and the couple settled in Iowa City where he attended and graduated University of Iowa with his BA and Master's degrees in Education. This began a lifetime career in education as a teacher and administrator in several Iowa school districts, including serving as principal at Central Junior High School in Iowa City and assistant superintendent. He and Bonnie left Iowa City in 1975 for California where he was an assistant superintendent and later a lobbyist for the Long Beach Community School District. The couple returned to Iowa City in 1989 where they enjoyed supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes, renewing old friendships, and golfing, especially the 20-plus years he spent working at Finkbine Golf Course. Bill truly never knew a stranger, and anyone who met him would know of his absolutely uncanny memory, care for people regardless of circumstance, and devotion to his wife of 68 years. Bill's family includes his two children, Debra Lawrence and William Bleeker Jr., 4 granddaughters, Kelly Lentsch, Tisa Johnson, Lanny Tygrett and Sadie Ary; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Bonnie (12/02/2015), and his twin sister, Betty. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Bill's family and his services.