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PRESCOTT, AZ -- William Allen Yowell (Bill) age 76, of Prescott, Arizona passed away at Yavapai Regional Medical Center with his family by his side.
Born in Mohawk Michigan, he was the son of John and Mary Yowell (Viro). He graduated from Calumet High School in 1969 and married Linda Hereford. They were married for 55 years and had three children. They resided
in Calumet Michigan until 1996, and moved to Prescott Arizona for retirement.
Bill began his merchant marine career as a deckhand for America Steamship Company and worked his way up through the ranks--becoming a wheelsman, 3rd, 2nd and 1st mate, and ultimately earned his Master's license
to be a captain. His first captain assignment was on the vessel Sam Laud in 1994. In 1996, while cap-
tain on the American Republic he had the honor of carrying the Olympic torch on the vessel. He
served on 12 vessels over his tenure and was known as the teaching captain for the fleet's 1,000 ft
freighters. He served on the navigation committee and was one of the best at maneuvering the giant
vessels. He concluded his distinguished 44-year career as captain of the Indiana Harbor, retiring on
December 1, 2013.
Later in life Bill decided to go back to work and took a job at Walmart as a maintenance man and then for Yavapai County government as a facilities maintenance worker until his death in 2025.
Bill was a devoted family man, and his greatest joy came from being with his loved ones. He was
known for his generosity, volunteering his time, money and skills to help others.
He had many talents, and loved working on projects around the house. His word was his bond
and he took pride in that. His wicked sense of humor always made us smile, pulling pranks
and making people laugh with his antics. He was a dedicated Packers fan and would always cheer
his team on while adding his own commentary to games.
He enjoyed fishing, riding his motorcycle and traveling, which included many cruises and trips
to Hawaii. He was pre deceased by his parents, John and Mary, and his brother John. Survived by his
wife Linda, sisters Mary Russell, Lavern Kytta, daughters Jolynn
VanErt (Gerald), Robin Locatelli (William), son William (Kat), eight grandchildren (Hannah,
Casey, Scott, Sedona, Darian, Hadyn, Logan, Jace) and two great grandchildren (Bailey and Hen-
ry)
A celebration of life will be held at VFW Post 10227 in Prescott Valley, Arizona. On Sun-
day August 23, 2026 at 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. For those who are unable to attend in person, we have
a Zoom link. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88035053935
Bill will be deeply missed by his family, friends, shipmates, and all who had the privilege of
knowing him.
William Yowell December 30, 1948 – November 25, 2025