William "Willie" Russell Stoffer passed away peacefully and will be greatly missed by many who loved him. Although he lost his courageous battle to brain cancer, he would want to be remembered for the battles he won. Willie's positive spirit comforted those that were privileged to know him.
Willie was born in Salt Lake City, March 5, 1990 and moved to Portland when he was two days old. His sister, Lacey quickly joined the family. They became "two peas in a pod" and were inseparable. Their neighborhood, Dunthorpe and school Riverdale were wonderful places to grow and learn. The memories from those years are many and precious. Each of us will have our favorites, but many will include daily bus stop gatherings, discovering and learning to play the saxophone, cabaret and dancing school. Willie graduated from Riverdale High School in 2008 and was given one of the schools top awards. Voted by his peers to best represent the qualities of kindness, spirit and pride of Riverdale High School. Willie participated in the high school lacrosse, track, football and basketball teams. Advanced jazz band, student ambassador and state and national bridge building contests are just some of the many activities Willie enjoyed.
After high school, Willie attended George Fox University. This experience led to the foundation of friendships and support that would follow Willie into his young adult life. It was at the University that he met his devoted caregiver, Jesus Garcia and many exceptional roommates that would enable Willie to live independently. He enjoyed his home in Lake Oswego's First Addition and much to Willie's delight; it was always filled with young adults and dogs.
Willie traveled with his family to many states and countries, exploring Italy, Canada, Mexico and the Cook Islands. Black Butte Ranch was a second home to the family. Entertaining, laughing and dancing with family and friends were always on the agenda. Close to his heart were his relationships with birth siblings, Camilla and Russ and his close friend, Liz Goeken.
Willie had many passions. These included relentless support of the Portland Trailblazers. He rarely missed a game and was usually found sitting courtside with his family or good friends. He was very involved with George Fox University and loved his role as an honorary coach of the football team. He delivered a motivational phrase to the team every week and you could always find him on the field cheering them on during Saturday games. Willie also found adventure and friendship in the mountains of Breckenridge, Colo., spending fun filled weeks at camp. He was known for his humor and honesty. Willie was the first to welcome new campers and had the amazing ability to bring out the best in all the young people he interactive with.
He leaves behind his parents, Brad and Katharine Stoffer of Lake Oswego; and his much loved sister, Lacey Stoffer of Los Angeles. Lacey was able to spend the last months of Willie's life close to him, traveling back and forth often. His adoring grandparents, Len and MaryAnna Stoffer of Tigard and Joyce Thurmer of Boulder, Colo., will miss him dearly. Willie was lucky to have a large and loving family consisting of many aunts, uncles and exceptional cousins all over the world. He wanted them all to know that he is expecting "big things" from each of them.
He passed into the hands of the Lord without fear or regret. Willie's upbringing in the Catholic Church makes his passing not one of sorrow; but one of relief that he will be in heaven with a new and strong body, eating donuts galore, watching over us with his famous smile. Willie approached life with an unbelievable gusto, fearlessly putting him in the mix of an adventurous life. He expected the best and enjoyed the results. Willie was your friend. He was kind, engaging and inclusive. To know Willie, was to know his humorous side. Till the very end he cared deeply about his family and friends.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 790 A Avenue, Lake Oswego, OR 97034.
In lieu of flowers and in the memory of Willie's generosity, please give to his favorite charities.
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), P.O. Box 697, Breckenridge, CO 80424. Mission: to empower people of all abilities through high-quality, outdoor experiences.
George Fox University Football Program, George Fox University, University Advancement, 414 N. Meridian Street #6256, Newberg, OR 97132.
Trail Blazers Foundation, Christa Stout, Executive Director, 1 Center Court, Suite 200, Portland, OR 97227.