William Haley, age 87, of Nevada died Thursday, June 29, 2017, at Story County Senior Care in Nevada. 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 3, 2017, at the First Christian Church, 250 West E Avenue, in Nevada, with Pastor Anjeanette Perkins officiating.  Burial will follow in the Nevada Municipal Cemetery with military honors by William F. Ball Post No. 48 of the American Legion.  Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to services.   

Born May 8, 1930, in Artesian, South Dakota, William John Haley was the son of John William and Rowena (McDonald) Haley.  He grew up in Boone County and graduated from Gilbert High School in 1947. 

William joined the United States Marine Corps and fought in the Korean Conflict.  He was married to Thelma Smith on November 7, 1954, in Nevada.  Seven children were born to this union. 

William farmed for many years, then began a new career as a pilot.  He and Thelma lived in several states during the time of his flying career. 

Survivors include his wife Thelma of Nevada; seven children, Teri (Jeff) Stauffacher of East Moline, IL, Randy (Marge) Haley of Colo, Mike Haley of Nevada, Tracy Haley of Algoquin, IL, Barry (Mari) Haley of State Center, Cindy (Kevin) McCauley of Ankeny, and Sandy (William Goodwin) Haley of Johnston; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Joan Wengert of Des Moines. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Margaret Beckett. 

Ryan Funeral Home of Nevada has been entrusted with the care of William and his family.