William D. Sterns ,78, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Sunday, March 29 ^th , 2020 at Heritage Specialty Care after complications from a short illness. Services will be held at a later date.

Bill was born February 4 ^th , 1942 in Iowa City, IA, the son of Dean Sterns and Edith Alloway.  He spent many years with the staff at Heritage Specialty Clinic.  This is where he received his nickname "Wild Bill".  He was often seen roaming the halls and picking on the staff. He once packed all his belongings and moved it to another room without knowledge or approval of the staff, because he did not like his roommate.  They were not amused! He loved placing the grandchildren on his lap and giving them rides down the hall. He stopped at every staff member and resident to introduce all of them with a huge smile on his face. So proud of each one of them.

Bill did cement work and mowing in his younger years.  A highlight for the kids was when he would take one to help him.  When they were finished, he would stop and by them a pop as a treat. He always enjoyed sitting down in the shade and eating a can of pork and beans with his daughter, Jennifer, for lunch.

He married Darlene Sterns on November 18 ^th , 1968 in Iowa City, IA. They were married for 19 years and had two daughters.  One together and one from a previous marriage.  They often went for rides in his big red truck and enjoyed time together.

Bill met Mary Mcgowan in 1993.  They have been companions for 27 years.  They enjoyed many boat rides, weekends together, and pizza in the park with Jennifer.

Bill is survived by his daughters; Jennifer Shannon and Linda Updike; son in law, Cliff Shannon; granddaughters, Reign Shannon, Candra Updike, Tammy Johnston, and Melody Updike; grandson, Matthew Noehl; ex-spouse Darlene Sterns and companion Mary Mcgowan.

Bill was proceeded in death by his mother; Edith, father Dean, sisters; Mary, Dorothy, and Madeline, brothers; Alfred and Carl, and Grandpa Tom.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Care Initiative Hospice. As well as the staff and the nurses at Heritage Specialty Clinic.

Memorials can be directed to the family.