William J. Hosmer, (call name “Hoz”) age 94, passed away peacefully at the VITAS In-patient Hospital Unit at Villa Rosa in San Antonio, Texas. He was the eldest son of John E. and Inez Hosmer. From his hometown of Dunseith, ND, to flying Left Wing with the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds and retiring as the 355th Wing Commander flying the A7-D at D.M.A.F.B. in Tucson, Arizona, Bill inspired comradery, leadership, and joy in the lives he touched.
Bill always wanted to be a fighter pilot and genuinely expressed his gratuitude for the sacrifices made by his parents, two brothers, and family members who helped him realize his dream to graduate from West Point and become an outstanding fighter pilot, who was always there to support, guide, and “Check-6” for his family, friends, crews and squadrons.
Bill’s graduation led to a wedding with Patricia Ann Small (Pat). They first met when they were infants in North Dakota after being born 3 weeks apart in the same hospital, to two couples who were close friends. Their marriage started 57 years of many new beginnings as a strong and loving couple who supported each other. Bill and Pat made each assignment in the U.S., Okinawa and England organized, comfortable, and secure for their five children, also creating opportunities to visit family and bond with their roots. They also included the kids as a “family team” throughout Bill’s Thunderbird Days flying the F-100, two tours in Viet Nam flying the F-100 and the F-105, a second career with Cessna as a Citation demo pilot, then a private pilot. Ultimately retiring to enjoy being snowbirds together, driving between Lake Metigoshe, ND and Tucson, AZ, visiting close friends and family along the way. Pat predeceased Bill in 2010, leaving everyone with a sad emptiness, but with the inspiration to carry her love and compassion forward to make the world a better place.
Bill was smitten upon meeting Elizabeth Smith (Liz), the sister of a close West Point classmate. The two of them established a long and loving partnership, with Liz becoming an important caregiver and vital part of Bill’s life.
Bill’s legacy of kindness, bravery with humility, compassion, generosity, inclusion, love, sense of humor and great storytelling will be treasured by Liz, her family, Bill’s family, friends, classmates and fellow pilots. He was awarded the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal and Air Medal with 13 Oak Leaf Clusters.
A graveside service will be held at the Riverside Cemetery in Dunseith, ND at a time yet to be determined. Guests are invited to leave messages. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.