Billie Junior Stapel, eighth child of William Albert & Marie Hazel (Voight) Stapel, was born on the family farm in Phillips County, Kansas, on April 19, 1940, which was the last day of his siblings' grade school.
He attended all eight elementary grades at the Iowa Union country school and then graduated from Phillipsburg High School in Phillipsburg, Kansas with the Class of 1958. In high school Billie enjoyed playing football, during which time their team won the Mid-Continent League Championship.
On June 7, 1960 he was united in marriage to Hilda Marie Nonhof in Bethany, Missouri. To this union four children were born: Danette, David, Jason and Hollyann, who died in infancy.
Farming was Billie's lifetime vocation and passion. He enjoyed operating heavy equipment and moving dirt. He was proud of his cattle and worked hard to improve his herd.
Billie was a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church in Phillipsburg, serving on several committees and always ready to fill the role as "greeter" on Sunday mornings.
His favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing, and taking "Momma" out to eat. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, but the highlights of his life were his grandchildren. He treasured the time spent with them and enjoyed attending their sporting events and school programs.
Billie will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Preceding him in death were his parents; infant daughter, Hollyann; brothers, Harold and Walter; and sisters, Anna, Betty, Alice, Wilma and Darlene.
He is survived by his wife, Hilda, of Phillipsburg; his children: Danette Lyon & husband, Chester, David Stapel & wife, Jean, and Jason Stapel & wife, Rebecca, all of Phillipsburg; six grandsons: Lucus, William and Adam Lyon; and Travis, Drew and Clint Stapel; and two granddaughters, Amy and Megan Stapel.

Funeral services will be Monday, Nov. 30, at 10:30 a.m. in the Presbyterian Church, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Chris Davis officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg.
Mr. Stapel will lie in-state Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 28 & 29, from noon – 9 p.m. at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Presbyterian Church or Phillipsburg Estates.