Bill Dobyns

William “Bill” Luther Dobyns, 76, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the place he loved the most, his family farmhouse in Dunkirk.

Bill was born on May 31, 1948, in Shelby, the youngest of eight children born to Daniel Roy and Leona Grace (Fenn) Dobyns. He graduated from Shelby High School in 1966, where he discovered a passion for music, learning to play the guitar and drums.

After graduation, Bill married Linda Hallenberg, and together they had two children, Wendy and Dan. In 1982, Bill married Kristi Gregory, with whom he had two daughters, Lacey and Jessica.

Bill followed in his father’s footsteps and began a lifelong career in plumbing, working under his uncle Jack and earning his Master Plumber certificate in 1975. He went on to serve the tri-county area for over 40 years. He also joined the Shelby Fire Department in 1969, dedicating over 20 years as a volunteer. Bill was known for his generosity, kindness, and sense of humor. He often "forgot" to bill people for his work and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill loved camping, hunting, fishing, and participating in archery shoots. He had a deep respect for the land, which he shared with his family and with hundreds of students as an instructor for the Bowhunter Education Program for over 20 years. Bill also participated in his children’s sports and activities and taught them to be gracious whether they won or lost. Whether from the sidelines, in the audience, as a coach, or even once as the mascot, his support was always felt.

In retirement, Bill enjoyed woodworking, tinkering with vehicles, and watching farm equipment pass by the farmhouse. He could often be found sharing stories with friends over coffee at Taylor’s, drinks at the Tap Room, or dinner at the Frontier. Bill always enjoyed visiting with neighbors who stopped by, cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, and was grateful for the love of his family and the help and friendship of his neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Danette Dobyns, Pat Sharp, Jesse Sallin, Peggy Rierson, Dan Dobyns, and infant brother, Billy Dobyns.

Bill is survived by his children, Wendy (Roger) Paulsen of Conrad, Dan Dobyns of Helena, Lacey (Jameson) Walker of Helena, and Jessica (Ray) Hawkins of Cheyenne, WY; 9 grandchildren; his former spouses, Linda Haworth and Kristi Dobyns of Shelby; and his sister, Juanita Decker of Lake Stevens, WA.

In spring of 2025 Bill will be buried with his family in the Dunkirk Cemetery and a Celebration of Life will follow at the Frontier Bar and Grill.