Billie O'Rear

Billie Howard O’Rear, age 86, passed away on February 25, 2020.

Billie was born November 1, 1933, in Oswego, Kansas. He was the son of William Howard O’Rear and Edith Violetta O’Rear.

Billie grew up outside of Caney, Kansas. He attended a one room schoolhouse during grade school. He graduated from Independence High School in 1951. While in high school, Billie worked for Sinclair Oil. After High School, Billie enlisted in the Army and served his country during the Korean War.

After serving in the military, Billie returned home to Kansas where he met the love of his life and bride of 63 years, Dee Ann (Mathis) O’Rear. After a whirlwind romance Billie and Dee married on December 24, 1956. Billie received his AA degree from Coffeyville Junior College and continued his education at Kansas State University.

In 1960, Billie and Dee moved to Colorado where Billie worked as an Engineer for Public Service Company until his retirement. Billie also worked in the ministry helping to start several churches and served in prison ministry.

Billie was a giving and thoughtful man with an infectious smile and laugh. He cherished his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Billie was a man that loved to help people. A phrase often used to describe Billie was, “He would give you the shirt off of his own back.” He also loved to fish and spend time in the outdoors. Billie was an auto mechanic and loved to tinker in the garage. In his younger years he was known to “soup-up” cars.

Billie was preceded in death by his father, William Howard O’Rear, mother, Edith Violetta O’Rear, brother-in-law, Lorne (Lon) Moats, nephew, Brett Alan Moats, and grandson, Christopher Michael Burke.

Billie is survived by, his spouse Dee Ann O’Rear, sister, Carol Moats, children, Cynthia Watts, Edith (Dale) Gerdes, Ruben (Sandra) O’Rear, Dee (Michael) Burke, Matthew Musich, Stephen Musich, Eleni Adamassu; 13 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren.

Billie’s Memorial Service will be held on March 16, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Fellowship Church in the Two Rivers Room.  (765 24 Road, Grand Junction, Colorado)

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in Billie O’Rear’s name to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at alz.org. Please note in your donation that it is in memory of Billie O’Rear.