Heartbreaking “goodbye” to a true Harley’s Hero

There are those people you meet in life who, although you’ve just met, feel like you’ve known them forever. This was never more true than when we met Bill and Wynn Wasinger nearly 5 years ago. They are the kind of people who make the world a better place just by being in it, and they have certainly made ours much brighter.

When Bill landed in the hospital a week ago, we were worried. But he had always seemed healthy and strong, and I was so convinced that, in the end, Bill was going to be okay. I didn’t consider anything else. I had not … I was not … prepared for this. I sat at my computer last night until late, trying to find the words, but I simply couldn’t. So I never made a post. I stared at Bill’s pictures and I watched a video of him over and over. Dan and I cried for the loss of our wonderful friend with the kindest heart, a great love for animals, and such joy for life.

And we cried for dear Wynn, Bill’s soul mate for more than 50 years. There will never be another couple more in love and committed to each other than these two. But it was Wynn who made me feel better, she helped me understand. Despite the tears, this amazingly brave, beautiful woman comforted me with her words – as only Wynn can do – and we both were able to laugh as we remembered Bill and his incredible spirit. So I guess, in the end, Bill really is okay.

Bill, we love you and you will be missed beyond measure. We are so grateful to have called you our friend, and we know you were greeted by the souls of countless people and animals whose lives you touched and made better.

Having not expected our Bill to leave so soon, we have nothing prepared, but I assure you that Harley’s Dream will honor him in a very special way. In the meantime, please hold Wynn in your hearts and send love and strength her way as she faces the days ahead.

Love, Rudi