Surrounded by his loving family, William Charles Ingram, age 77, passed away on December 23, 2023, at the University of Utah Medical Center. A dedicated family man, cherished friend to all, Bill leaves behind a legacy of warmth and unwavering support.
Born in Vale, Oregon, to Robert and Beatrice Ingram, he has two sisters, Barbara and Mary Kay and a younger brother, David. Growing up catholic in this one stoplight town, shaped his values of family and camaraderie from an early age, and his father, the sheriff of Vale, taught him the importance of respect and integrity.
Bill’s journey led him to graduate from Vale High School and his athletic talent in football and baseball took him to Boise State Junior College and then to Idaho State University. During his time at ISU, he was named All-Round Athlete of the Year, was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 1968 and in 2002 was further recognized when he was inducted into the ISU Hall of Fame. Even though dad was awarded many times for his dedication and abilities while playing and coaching, no award on his wall compared to the joy he felt fishing at Brownlee, hunting in the Dakotas, placing a bet in Jackpot, cooking in the South Hills, and golfing surrounded by his friends and family.
He married Jennifer Kelly and was instantly brought into the Kelly family. The time he spent with her father, Wally Sr. and brother, Wally, were some of his best stories. Bill was the proud father of two children, Kristin and Kelly. His ability to create connections led him to coaching and teaching which spanned over 30 years, beginning at Buhl High School and his eventual retirement at Twin Falls High School where a baseball field is named in his honor.
Wild Bill found joy in fishing, hunting, and unapologetically cheering for the Yankees and will be remembered for his infectious laughter, welcoming smile and humility. His passion for sports extended beyond his own family; if he wasn’t supporting his own grandkids, you would see him in the stands or in the outfield supporting yours. One of Bill’s greatest joys was coaching his grandsons, Michael and Rutger, in baseball. Whether on or off the field, he embodied the spirit of mentorship and encouragement. If there was any advice he gave or wisdom he shared, pass it on.
Pops is survived, David, Barbara and Mary Kay, Kelly (Gracie, Abby, Ziph), Kristin (Steven, Varic, Rutger), Michael (Alyssa, Carter, Reevie, Cal, Rin, Rawsi), Cheltzie (Robert, Amaiya, Aaliyah, Taesyn), and several nephews and nieces. Bill’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him, a man whose presence drew people together and left an indelible mark on the community he so dearly loved. Whether you knew Coach for 70 years or just met him sitting at the end of the bar, you couldn’t help but be drawn to him.
Please join us at a baseball game in his honor on Tuesday, March 19th at 4:30 at Bill Ingram Field and for a service at St. Edward’s Church on March 21st at 11:00 with a celebration of life at the church’s parish hall following. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Bill Ingram Baseball Field Fund at Twin Falls High School, 1615 Filer Ave. E, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301.
Dad wanted to be remembered as the friend you could always count on, and the pops you could always call.
