William "Bill" Apostolou

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Andrew Apostolou, beloved husband, father, grandfather (Papou), brother, uncle, friend, and an American Hero. Bill, 75, was born on May 31, 1949, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Bill grew up in Cheyenne, with his younger sister, Kathy. As a young child, he was devastated by the sudden death of his father, Andy Apostolou. A few months later more tragedies struck the family when his Uncle, Andy Georgios died, followed by the death of his cousin, Angelo Georgios, who was killed by a drunk driver on Highway 287. His family commitment resulted in long, lasting love between them. His Aunt Toula became the Monarch of the family and Bill became the Head of the Household at an early age and a strong protector of his sister. 

 He attended Cheyenne East High School and was an amazing basketball player. He joined the U.S.M.C. right out of high school with several of his best friends. Bill proudly served three tours in Vietnam with the Marine Corp, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines. His valor earned him two Purple Hearts. His service was a testament to his strength, resilience, and dedication to protecting the freedoms we hold so dear. He carried the sacrifices of his service with dignity, inspiring all who knew him. 

 Upon returning home, after being hospitalized, he began his career as a deputy sheriff of Laramie County. He went on to study at Laramie County College and graduated with honors. That same year he married his best friend and the love of his life, Ida Mae Conine. They found true partnership with each other, and they endured many trails in life. She was his steadfast partner and greatest supporter.

 He joined the work force in 1971 at the U.S. Postal Service and remained until his retirement. Bill was a devoted father to his two children, Andrew “Andy” and Angela, and grandfather, “Papou,” to Marie Irene, Joseph Andrew, Hayden William, and Mason Nicholas, were his greatest joys. His love, stories, laughter, and lessons will continue to guide them. Bill's devotion to his family was most evident in the special bond he shared with his Granddaughter Marie, whom he helped raise with steadfast love and care, His role in her life was that of a mentor and protector, offering her a safe and nurturing home while always respecting the love of those closest to her. Bill spent many years coaching their various team sports and teaching them about survival in the great outdoors and took them on many fishing and hunting trips.

 Later in life, with his life-long buddies and new friends, they began a Hunting group with Veterans. They took several Veterans Elk hunting, some of whom had never been. On October 17, 2017, this was one of Bill’s greatest experiences when he shot his first 6-point Bull Elk. And became a famous story to be told for many years and each year it got a little more exciting depending on who was telling the story, wither it was Ilo Harris, John Parr, Troy Guimond, Joe Reichard, or David Hansen. 

 He was a dedicated member of Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, where his grandfather and uncles helped lay the foundation, he served on the Parish Council, and various other committees, and assisted with several Greek Festivals. He was also a member of Holy Apostles Orthodox Church. His generosity and commitment to these causes reflected his deep value and sense of community and compassion. He lived a life defined by courage, love, and unwavering devotion to his family and country.

 He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Ida Mae (Conine) Apostolou, his sister, Kathy (Billy) Adams, sister-in-law’s, Sharon (Hickman) Conine, and Dawna (Conine) Hill, brother-in-law, Jim Conine, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Andrew W., and Irene Apostolou, several loving Uncles and Aunts, cousins, Angelo and Gussie Georgios, Carrie Nafus Gasch, and Gary Martoglio, and brother-in-law, Tom (Honey) Conine, and his best friend, Richard McIntosh.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to his doctors and nurses and close friends who supported him with his health issues. Those who knew Bill will remember his warm smile, quick wit, and quiet strength he brought to every room he entered. He was a man of unshakable principles, faith, and boundless generosity, always ready to teach, lend a hand, or give a listening ear. 

 Though he is no longer with us, the legacy of William (Bill) Andrew Apostolou will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him. May his Memory be eternal, knowing his life made a difference. 

 The Trisagion will be held on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 pm, at Schrader’s Funeral Home. Services will be held on January 8, at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 501 West 27th Street, at 12:30 pm, with internment at the Cheyenne National Cemetery located west of town on Hildreth Road.

Donations can be made to Holy Apostles Orthodox Christian Church, 9505 Hynds Blvd., Cheyenne Wy, 82009; Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 501 W. 27th Street, Cheyenne Wy, 82001; or UniWyo Federal Credit Union, C/O William Apostolou Educational Fund at 5249 Yellowstone Rd. Cheyenne WY, 82009.