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Current Services
Bill is a life-long resident of Wichita; his roots run deep both in his professional career, as well as in his service to the community. He graduated from East High School in 1958 and from Wichita State University with a BA in political science. He attended Washburn Law School and graduated with honors from the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science.
He has been involved in the ownership and direction of Broadway Mortuary for over 45 years; and since 1995, has worked with his son, Ashley, in the planning and development of Kensington Gardens. He has been recognized as a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) by the Academy of Funeral Service Practitioners (only one of eight so recognized in the State of Kansas). Bill’s experience as a funeral director has included all phases of service to families, as well as to state and national funeral director’s associations.
Over the years, he has brought a number of national caliber speakers to Wichita to share with ministers, caregivers, and medical and hospice personnel, concerning how to more effectively serve those in grief. Additionally, Bill has spoken to many groups including churches, businesses, high schools and colleges concerning death and dying. His goal: to teach others to feel more comfortable and knowledgeable as they interact and serve others.
He was instrumental in taking Wichita Festivals from a weekend event to a 10-day celebration, serving as its first chairman. He served as president of Wichita Festivals, Inc. during the bi-centennial year of celebration when Wichita Festivals hosted four major events: the Freedom Train, the River Festival, the first city-wide 4th of July Celebration at WSU’s Cessna Stadium and a Fall Ethnic Festival at Cowtown. He was co-founder of the Wichita Wagonmasters and served as Admiral Windwagon Smith VIII.
Bill is a past member of the Board of Directors of the Wichita Independent Business Association. He is past president of Wichita Sister Cities and was active in securing both Cancun, Mexico and Kaifeng, China as Sister Cities for Wichita. He currently serves on the Advisory Board for the Salvation Army and is a member of Wichita Downtown Rotary and the Wichita Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Bill has been active within the Christian community, serving as co-chairperson for the Leighton Ford Crusade and as a director for the Franklin Graham Crusade. He has served as a church elder, deacon and teacher. He and his wife of 45 years, Suzy, attend Central Christian Church. They are the parents of two children, Ashley and Heather. They have six grandchildren.
