Obituary of William Arthur Prothero

William Arthur Prothero, In Memory Bill was born in Twin Falls Idaho, on November 6, 1915, the second child of Arthur and Martha Prothero. He grew up on a 20 acre farm near Hazel Dell, Washington, just north of Vancouver. Bill had an older sister, Lola, and two younger brothers, Harold and Clarence. Together they learned the necessary discipline for the hard work required of farm life. Once out of High School, Bill went to trade school to study diesel mechanics and then joined Consolidated Freightways as a mechanic for 10 years. Diesel Service Unit Company was formed in 1945 by Bill and his partners, Wally Yost and Jim Montgomery. They started out working in a rented store front, rebuilding and installing failed engine "units" on the road. Soon there was a building, numerous employees, and complete engine rebuilds. Today Diesel Service sells and services Peterbilt and GMC trucks at a large Swan Island facility. When Bill was 22 he married the love of his life, Mary. Asked what attracted him to Mary, he said she was beautiful and did everything he wanted. Then, he added that after they got married, he did everything she wanted. They had three sons, Bill Jr., Bob, and Gary. Bill was instrumental in encouraging a strong work ethic in his sons. They all worked at Diesel Service during their high school and college years. This strong work ethic has stayed with them through their professional development and work lives. Bill also instilled an entrepreneurial spirit in his sons. Both Gary and Bob started their own successful companies and Bill Jr. led a research program at the University of California. Bill and Mary were very active in St. Luke's, singing in the choir where Mary was a soloist. Bill was a deacon and served on various church boards. They also enjoyed dancing and spending time with their grandchildren at their cottage in Gleneden beach. After selling the cottage, they purchased a travel trailer and enjoyed many camping trips with the sons and their families. At age 75, Mary developed Alzheimer's. Bill was her faithful caregiver for six years until her death. A few years later, Bill accompanied Clarence to his high school reunion and was reacquainted with a neighboring farmer's daughter, Josephine McNeil. She has been a loving companion for the last six years. Bill was a quiet, generous man who set a strong example of honesty, integrity, and generosity. He was loved by many and will be sorely missed by all. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to: Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation One intrepid Square West 46th Street & Twelfth Ave, New York, New York 10036 Service Information