William "Bill" Arthur Hall

William “Bill” Arthur Hall
June 12, 1954 – October 24, 2025

William “Bill” Arthur Hall — known affectionately as Willy, Bill, or “Old Man” — passed away peacefully at home in Nebish, Minnesota, at the age of 71.

Bill was born in Chicago in 1954 and spent much of his early life in sunny California, where he developed his lifelong love of music. He spent summers in Wilton, Minnesota, with his dad, and it was there he fell in love with the Northwoods — a love that would eventually bring him back for good.

A talented auto mechanic, Bill spent his life under and around vehicles, taking great pride in the quality of his work and the satisfaction of a job well done. His hands could fix almost anything (as long as it was car related), and his heart was just as generous as his skill.

Bill met the love of his life, Melinda, in 1992. Their first date was at the farm, where Bill cooked the family fish — and anyone who knew him knew just how good that fish was. He treated Melinda’s children, Hanna and Deven, as his own from the very beginning, making it an easy “yes” when he asked Melinda to marry him in 1996.

Over the years, Bill’s greatest joys came from “his kids” — and later, his grandkids, Brody, Chase, and Ellie. Becoming “Grandpa Bill” brought a new light to his life. Whether hunting, fishing, or camping, he shared his love for the outdoors with a new generation. Sitting in the deer stand, he often told Hanna that watching nature wake up was one of life’s greatest pleasures — and, he’d add with a grin, a perfect time for a morning nap.

Bill loved his community and had a special passion for the Take a Kid Fishing program in Bemidji, where he shared his love of fishing and the patience it teaches. He looked forward to the event every year and took joy in watching kids return with wide smiles and big fish stories.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred (Millie) and Frank Hall, his younger sister (age 2), and his beloved dog, Cheeka.

He is survived by his loving wife Melinda, children Hanna Lord (Bobby Gartland) and Deven (Marci) Lord, grandchildren Brody, Chase, and Ellie, and many dear friends who will miss him greatly.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 12:00–1:00 p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Nebish, Minnesota, followed by a Celebration of Life service and lunch.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill’s memory to the Take a Kid Fishing Organization in Blackduck, Minnesota — a cause that meant so much to him. Hospice & Home Health Care of Bemidji – who cared for him deeply or the Joe Lueken Cancer Center where he had the best care team.  

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