William Lee Hedrick leaves us too early

Jim Day was kind enough to contact me to let us know that Bill Hedrick died on December 10, 2017.  Here is an obituary that Jim wrote up for us in the absence of a published one that I could find.
Thanks go to Jim for being so kind to keep us posted on classmate activity.  Bill and Rusty Nelson were good pals, so I wonder if it was Rusty with whom Bill joined in the buddy system.  Thank you again Jim!

"William (BILL) Hedrick lived in Rosebud, MO. Graduating from Kirkwood High School he joined the Navy with the Buddy System, serving our country in the U.S. NAVY.  He served in VIET NAM from 1965-69 receiving medals for his service during his time there. Bill was involved in the recovery of APOLLO 10 & APOLLO 11.  He earned a degree in design engineering and, working for MONSANTO, Bill designed and developed machines to assist in the paint industries.  He eventually left MONSANTO to work within his family business and upon his retirement Bill was able to continue his avid love for golf, and his enjoyment as a master mechanic."