Bill J. Conner, 82, Carthage, MO, passed away Friday evening, September 14, 2018 at Freeman Hospital, Joplin, MO. Bill Joe Conner was born December 6, 1935 in Pawhuska, OK to the late Lydia E. (Cole) Reidinger. Bill served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Bill worked as board supervisor of park commissions in Wichita, KS. He married Ruby Archer on November 10, 1955 in Raton, NM; she survives.
Some of his hobbies included shooting pool, playing golf and bowling with the stars. He was a member of the Shriners and attended the First United Methodist Church, Carthage.
Survivors include his wife, Ruby, a niece, Anita Archer, Carthage; two sisters, Brenda Eeuhuis and Lolma Knookester; two brothers, Larry Knookester and Wayne Knookester; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Conner; four grandchildren, Theresa Dobbs, Kimberley Couturier, Audrey Conner, and Tiffany Conner; six great grandchildren, the seventh on the way and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert W. and Lydia Reidinger, one daughter, Patricia Gaskill, and two sons, Ralph Allen Conner and Robert Wilson Conner.
Graveside services will be held 10 am, Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at Fasken Cemetery, Carthage. Rev. James Lee will officiate. A reception will follow at the First United Methodist Church of Carthage, MO. Memorial gifts are suggested to the Billy Conner Memorial Fund in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
