William "Bill" Henry Boatman

William “Bill” Henry Boatman passed away on December 3, 2024, at the age of 96. He was born on February 9,1928 and lived a long and fulfilling life. He was born in Kalama, WA.to Henry Dennis and MaryElizabeth Boatman. He graduated from Kalama High school in 1946 and joined the US Army shortly after graduation. During his service in the Army, Bill was stationed in occupied Japan as a member the 24th Infantry. He was honorably discharged in 1947 and found work soon after as a floor clerk at Watkins Tractor and Supply. Bill married Joan Ann Zaglinski, his one true love, in 1953. They lived in Kalama their entire 71 years of marriage. They were blessed with four children: Terry Leineweber (Tim), Susan Bergman (Mike),Steven, and John (Leisa). Bill and Joan have eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Bill proved to be a respected salesman at Watkins and eventually purchased the feed, seed and implement business from Harold Watkins. The company is one of the nine “Pioneer” dealerships for Kubota Tractor in the US and has been with Kubota Tractor for over 52 years while also a John Deere distributor for 71 years. Watkins Tractor proved to be a hallmark in the community for over 98 years and still resides in the same iconic building near the Kelso train depot. Bill was loyal to his company and the communities surrounding it with special attention to his hometown of Kalama. He was even a proud volunteer fireman for the City of Kalama for over thirty years. He loved his farm on the Kalama River and enjoyed raising his Pinzgauer cattle. His favorite pastime was driving around with his grand and great-grand kids who will fondly remember his catchphrase, “let’s go see the cows.” He loved hunting and fishing in the Northwest, in Idaho, and especially in his second home of Alaska. He enjoyed driving his motorhome with Joan to their cabin in Kasilof, Alaska. He is preceded in death by Joan, his beloved wife, who passed away earlier this year at 91, his parents, and sisters, Vira Boatman (4) and Illeanna Boatman(73). He is survived by his sister, Joanna Boatman(94) who still resides in Kalama. His fairness, generosity, along with quietly helping others succeed will be missed. His humor, personality, and endearing stories will be remembered throughout the county and beyond for years to come. Our mom and dad will forever be in our hearts. A memorial celebration honoring Bill and Joan will be announced at a later date.