William Riley Haid Jr.

Devoted Husband, Father of three, Honored Navy Veteran, and retired university enrollment executive, William Riley Haid Jr., born on July 13, 1948, passed away peacefully at the age of 74 on May 2, 2023. His last seven years will forever be remembered as his “cancer battle years” when he courageously tried every single treatment option until his body could simply take no more. Ultimately, he succumbed to Multiple Myeloma.

He is survived by his loving spouse, Joan Haid, his devoted children, Adam Haid (Christina), Adrienne Greenough (Adrian), and Peter Haid (Sasha) and his cherished grandchildren, Morgan Greenough, Hunter Greenough, Abigail Thatcher, Garrett Thatcher, Jianna Greenough, Noah Haid, Austin Haid, Hudson Haid, and Hillis Haid. He was predeceased by his parents, William Haid Sr., and Sarah Haid, and is also survived by his siblings, Steve Haid and Rita Burlison.

William attended Southeast Missouri State College and San Jose State University where he obtained his undergraduate degree in 1970 and later completed his masters at Arizona State University in 1974. This led him into a career building better systems of university enrollment and improving the student experience at over five major public universities across four states. A man of faith, William was an attendee at several churches over the years and at each one he fervently served in leadership roles and built community and fellowship. Known for his dedication to his local communities, he generously volunteered his time in roles such as President of the board at Carbon Valley Parks & Recreation and President of AACRAO.

He lived life to the fullest, enjoying recreational activities such as music (guitar, piano, and drums), golfing and pickleball. William's warm, encouraging, thoughtful, hardworking, generous, organized, and faithful personality positively impacted many lives. He was known for imparting valuable lessons, such as always taking the high road and never taking away another man's dignity.

His legacy will be a testament to his true servant leadership and his ongoing pursuit to love everyone like Jesus does.

A memorial service will be held for William on May 15, 2023, at 9:00 AM at Rocky Mountain Christian Church, 9447 Niwot Rd, Longmont, CO followed by a light reception at the same location. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the International Myeloma Foundation.

William R. Haid Jr. will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life and the lessons he shared will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return. He loved bald eagles because they represent power under control and a majestic presence. It’s no surprise then that Bill/Dad has become OUR eagle. May we all learn to fly like he did.  

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