William H.I. 'Bill' Padberg Jr.

William Henry Irving Bill Padberg Jr., 88, longtime Lexington resident, died at Pioneer Memorial Hospital in Heppner on Sunday, November 11, 2012, befitting that he was a veteran. A memorial service with military honors will be held 11 a.m. Friday, November 16, 2012 at the Lexington Community Church.

He was born August 3, 1924, at the Padberg ranch in Clarks Canyon near Lexington, the son of William H. I. and Irene Allstott Padberg. He lived on the Padberg ranch his whole life except for his time in the military and while attending college. Bill graduated from Heppner High School and then attended Oregon State University. In 1943 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during WWII. He was wounded on Iwo Jima and received a Purple Heart for his heroic actions.

On returning home from the military he married Betty Baker of Ione and the couple had two children, Michael and Tura. They later divorced. Tura preceded him in death in 1995.

He married Anneta B. Klinger on March 17, 1981. They continued to live on the Padberg ranch. Annetta preceded him in death in May of 2011.

Bill is survived by his son, Michael William Padberg; three grandchildren, Seana, Shane and Shannon; and 8 great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pioneer Memorial Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 515, Heppner, OR 97836.

Sweeney Mortuary of Heppner is in charge of arrangements.