Albert W. (Bill) Van Arsdale was born January 17, 1934 in Rifle, CO., to Etta Mae and Robert Van Arsdale. Bill graduated Rifle Union High School in 1952 and married Carolyn Sue Field on May 1, 1954. Together they had one daughter, Starla, also of Rifle, CO. Bill went on to serve four years in the U.S. Army and became a paratrooper in the 152nd Airborne Division, in Fort Bragg, NC. Bill received an Associate’s Degree in Commercial Art from Mesa State College. In 1966, Bill became an agent for National Investors Insurance Company and later opened his own agency in downtown Rifle. Bill was involved in City Council and later served as Mayor of Rifle. On November 22, 1982, Bill married Berta (Jody) Chase; together they raised Tawnya Chase.

Bill enjoyed many hobbies: fishing, camping, road trips, politics, history and wood working. He took great pride in creating the rocking animals for “Grandad’s Critters,” which was an outlet for the expression of his faith in God. For over 21 years, Bill was a Wal-Mart employee, and most recently served as a “greeter,” endearing himself to customers he saw frequently as well as strangers.

Bill is survived by wife Jody, his two daughters Starla and husband Paul, Tawnya and husband Matt, five grandchildren (Jeremy, Josh, Katie, Savannah, James), eight great-grandchildren (Audrye, Norrah, Ella, Abagail, Weston, Bransen, Grant, Harper), younger sister Janice Van Sell and his two nieces (Tandie and Bobee), four great-nieces (Tristen, Toni, Natalia, Sydni), and two great-nephews (Taylor and Tyler), and many more loved ones.

Bill, aka “Dad,” “Daddy,” “Grandad” will be greatly missed by all. A celebration of his life will be held at “New Hope Church” in New Castle, CO., at 11:00am on Monday July 13, 2015. Immediately following, there will be a luncheon at the same location. Farnum-Holt Funeral is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Wounded Warrior Project.

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