William Tempel

Bill was born to Edward and Mary Kreitmeier Tempel of Chester, Montana on March 3, 1925, one of eight children. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during WW II.

After discharge, he began classes in pre-med at Northern Montana College, followed after seven years by graduation from University of Oregon Health Sciences with a dental degree. Bill moved to Colfax in 1954 and was active in several civic organizations. Those included American Legion, Elks and Masons in Colfax, serving two terms on Colfax City Council and several years as Scoutmaster. During those years, 11 scouts received their Eagle Badge and he was one of the Inland Empire Council leaders for two National Jamborees and one World Jamboree in Japan. He loved fishing, hiking, camping and skiing with family and friends and cheering on the Mariners.

Bill was preceded in death by all seven of his brothers and sisters and his first wife Gertrude Frost Tempel in 1993. He is survived by his wife, Marcia Kammerzell Tempel; two sons, Lee and Bruce; granddaughter Flora; stepdaughter Sharyl Kammerzell, stepson Craig Kammerzell; and his two daughters, Natasha and Cassandra Kammerzell. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Whitman County Library or Colfax Fire Department.

No service will be held at this time due to Coronavirus, but a memorial will be set once restrictions have eased.