William (Bill) Lee Garrett

With profound love and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we remember William Garrett — a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, public servant, and friend to all who had the privilege to know him.

William was born on October 19, 1949, to Bob and Blondel Garrett, both of whom preceded him in death. He was one of three children, and now reunites in peace with his brother, Collin Garrett. He leaves behind his beloved sister, Bonnie Pyle, who resides in Arizona.

William was a proud father to his sons Buck Garrett of Denver, Colorado, and Sean Garrett (Sarah) of McMinnville, Tennessee. He cherished his grandchildren, Gavin Garrett of Penrose, Colorado, and Kayleigh Garrett of Florence, Colorado — and he delighted in the joy of his great-granddaughter, little Ropelyn.

After attending Cañon City High School and graduating from Montclair High School in 1968, William answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Army. He volunteered for service in Vietnam, where he was assigned to the Military Assistance Command, working closely with the Montagnard people and local militias as part of a four-man Mobile Advisory Team. William’s service was marked by courage, compassion, and an unwavering sense of duty. As his first tour came to an end he volunteered for a second. He returned home on December 28, 1970. For his bravery and dedication, he was awarded the Bronze Star, two Army Commendations for Valor, the Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with a silver star (for participation in seven campaigns), the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with both bronze star and oak leaf, and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Upon returning from service, William began a long and accomplished career in construction and public service. From the construction sites of San Diego to his distinguished tenure with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, he built not just structures — but better futures for countless communities. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, his humility, and his refusal to say “that’s not my job.” He eventually retired in 2005 as Director of HUD Progress, but continued to serve by consulting with FEMA on disaster recovery and long-range planning.

William was also deeply committed to his community. He helped establish the first Habitat for Humanity affiliate in Wyoming and was a proud life member of VFW Post 4061 in Cañon City. He was an active Freemason, a 32nd-degree Scottish Rite Mason, and a member of the Wyoming Grand Lodge AF & AM. He also proudly served in the American Legion Post 13.

More than his achievements, William will be remembered for his gentle soul, his willingness to lend a hand, and the kindness that radiated from him. He had a quiet strength and an open heart, always going out of his way to make others feel seen, heard, and valued.

He lived a life of purpose, honor, and compassion — a life that touched many and will never be forgotten.

A service to honor and celebrate William’s life will be held on Saturday, April 26th 2025, at 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the VFW, 215 North Cottonwood Ave. Canon City, CO. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to a veterans’ charity or Habitat for Humanity in his memory.

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