Bill “Bill Fish” “Billy” - William James Furniss, a man whose heart was as BIG as the waters he loved to fish. We lost him on May 15, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Ogden. Born on June 10, 1949, Bill’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, and laughter, deeply woven into the fabric of his community, friends, family, a stranger on the street and the hearts of all of those who we’re lucky enough to know him.

Bill was much more than the successful owner of Bill’s Auto and Bill’s Mattress and Furniture as well as the manager of Planned Furniture Promotions; he was a pillar of strength and warmth for his family and friends. He was truly a larger-than-life figure, famed for being the best fisherman anyone could hope to meet and a great hunter who lived for the joys of the outdoors. With a fishing pole in one hand and a cold beer in the other. More than his career or hobbies, Bill’s proudest accomplishment was his role as a father, a grandfather, and a great-grandfather—a title he wore with immense pride and unwavering love. It was usually the second thing he’d say to everyone he met…. “I have five beautiful daughters and one really tough, handsome son.”

Those moments spent with Bill, our Dad, by the water, with fishing poles in hand, were some of the happiest memories shared by his family and friends —memories of dinners around a bustling table, breakfast’s at Moore’s Cafe, the long nights sitting in a wagon at the Prairie Schooner, our truck rides blasting country music and sharing stories about the good ol’ days, the great times we shared at the Ogden Pioneer rodeo, country concerts, every holiday we spent together, summer evenings filled with barbecue smoke and laughter. These were the threads that wove our family closer, guided by Bill’s presence. We are who we are because of him.

Known fondly as Bill Fisherman to many, he was more than just an incredible father; he was a friend to all, a man who would give the shirt off his back without hesitation. Always ready with a joke or a smile, Bill had a way of lifting spirits and bringing joy wherever he went. His wisdom, stories, the fishing stories, his silly wit, one liners and ol’ wives tales were just a few of our favorites. His loyalty and kindness were boundless, and his generosity extended beyond those he knew daily, touching the lives of strangers with the same heartfelt compassion.

Born and bred in Ogden, Bill was the cherished son of Effie Simpson and Kenneth Furniss, and a loving brother to Ken Furniss and Bonnie Vanausdal. He leaves behind a rich legacy through his children Shane Furniss, Heather Larsen, Heidi Furniss, Bridget Stella, Krystal Turner, and Sabrina Hansen. His grandchildren—Jaden, Rae, Dylan, Parker, Baylee, Hannah, Cole, Riley, Ashley, Kai, Alexis, Brighton, Hudson, and Victor—carry forward his spirit, as do his great-grandchildren, who will forever know the warmth of his love.

Bill Furniss’s life was a crazy, wild, beautiful story—to family, friends, and the simple, profound joys of life. Though he has passed from this world, the laughter he sparked and the love he gave remain indelible. He will be deeply deeply missed, a part of our hearts are with him forever. He will never be forgotten by those who had the honor to call him dad, grandpa, great grandpa, uncle, best friend, and son. His legacy will live on, through the jerk of a fishing pole, the kick of a shot gun, the sun shining down on a hot day and anytime we see a fish jump or a flying star. We will know it is him, watching over us.

May his memory be a blessing and a comfort to all who loved him. Rest peacefully, Bill Fish, on those tranquil waters you loved so much. Catch a big one up there for us Dad. “So long” as you’d always. We cannot wait to all be reunited and GO FISHIN’.