Roll Call Tribute

Published in El Paso Times from Aug. 3 to Aug. 10, 2017

BILL PEARCE
Retired El Paso veterinarian, Bill J. Pearce, passed away July 25, 2017. He was killed while bicycling near Salida, Colorado. He is survived by his sister, Penny, her husband, Earl, and niece, Samantha, his life partner of 32 years, Colleen Gavin, and his beloved kitties, Buddy (aka The Little General) and Purdy. Also surviving him are the "girls" at the Coronado Animal Clinic and their families, who he saw grow up in the years he ran the facility, as well a myriad of friends and clients who remember his unique personality and style. He was predeceased by two best buddies, Michael McCann and David Mann and doubtless is celebrating their very sudden reunion. Born in Rosenberg, TX, 1943, Bill attended Lamar Consolidated H.S., graduating Class of '61. He subsequently graduated from Texas A&M in 1968, spent four years at Yakota AFB in Japan, and eventually relocated to El Paso, where his then wife, Judy, planned to pursue a degree in Anthropology. He opened the Coronado Animal Clinic in 1975 and ran it until 2001 before placing it in the able hands of Dr. Roger Freund. Thereafter, he dedicated his time and surgical talents to various Spay and Neuter programs in Texas and New Mexico. He also volunteered his exemplary skills in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and in Puerto Penasco with Compassion Without Border. While Bill was extraordinarily generous and loving with his people friends, his great passion was animals, and his tender care enhanced the lives of thousands of local cats, dogs, and even rabbits. Please submit donations in their names to: Loyal Duke's Dog Park, c/o Salida Dog Club, PO Box 1106, Salida, Colorado 81201, or to any animal rescue organization of your choice.