Bill Lofthouse Obituary

Chris,
I met Bill in 1977 when he and Steve built the first Honda float. It has been a genuine pleasure to have worked with Bill and yourself on the many wonderful floats you have produced for American Honda.
I've attached a photo of Bill on my favorite float, the 2005 train.
Best wishes to you and your family.

My family and I were so sorry to hear about Bill's death. We were neighbors for years in Pasadena. What are the odds that both Don Boyko and Bill both died of pancreatic cancer? We are praying for your family and know that Bill gave you the support and foundation to continue on with your family's vision. We'll be watching your work every year.

Our prays are with you and your family. Bill was an amazing person I thank you Bill for sharing your amazing world with me when I was a young child. I thank you for being a wonderful person and friend to my father. Chris and Michelle if we can be of any help please let us know.
All Our Love
The Stancliffe's (Autry)

Long before the Float Business, Bill worked for my father Clayton Autry, a Painting Contractor. When I started working for my father in 1966 Bill took me under his wing. My Dad passed away in 1979, and Bill continued with me until about 1984. Bill Lofthouse stands as the man I learned to be a man from. The man I wanted to emulate. He taught by the way he lived. His honesty, devotion to his family, passion, and creativity shown in all that he did. Todays Church Service was an outpouring of love for Bill, and it simply reflected all the love he gave. Blessings always to your family all, and I say that your Spirit is alive. As you make the transition to something new I say "Namaste".

Chris and Family,

The sun has set on a wonderful man who leaves behind an amazing legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

The Lofthouse Family,

Bill was my knight in shinning armour. He was always there when I needed a friend. He was a kind and gentle man with many friends but he made you feel as if you were the only one. Bill will remain in my heart forever!

Bill has moved to a higher place and is with his beloved wife, Gretchen. Together they are ready to build a bigger and better float as they smile down on us.

May your tears of sorrow become memories of joy.

Love,

Dear Chris, Michele and Family,
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. He was very special to so many people. His strong personality, ability to work with people and kindness are characteristics I will remember most about him. Much of Glendale's participation in the parade was due to him and your company.

He will be missed but not forgotten. God bless you all.

Lofthouse Family
Phoenix Decorating
Tournament of Roses & Friends

Bill was more than just our float builder he was a friend in the purest sense of the word.
It is amazing how many lives Bill touched. I know his dreams will keep living on through Chris, Michelle and Cindy. May his memory be eternal.

AHEPA Hellenic Heritage Foundation
Nick Perdaris & Chris Mellas

Dear Chris and Family,
I'm sad to hear of the loss of your father. He was genuine, kind, generous and a lovely man. Someone whom I was honored to have been associated with. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Kind regards,
Jeff Riemers

Dear Lofthouse Family,
Lake Arrowhead has lost a very Special Person.
Bill will be GREATLY missed by those who knew him in the community. Our Love, Thoughts & Prayers are with you all during this very sad time.
God Bless You,
Patti & George Roddick

I feel as though I have lost one of the members of my family. Bill's strength and support with his gentleness and kindness will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace with your beloved wife Gretchen.
Chris and Michelle and all of the family, please know our hearts and prayers are with you.
Much love,
Joni (Okum) & Jay Berger
Soroptimist International
Camino Real Region

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation

WE WILL MISS YOU SO VERY MUCH,YOU TREATED MYSELF AND MY FAMILY AS YOUR OWN. OUR HEARTS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU,GRETCHEN AND THOSE WHO LOVED YOU AS WE DID.

Chris and family:
We have all lost a great guy, friend, mentor. It was a pleasure to have been associated with Bill throughout my time in the TofR. He will be missed by all.
JERRY