William Walter Raikes, 93

William Walter Raikes, 93, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Bill was born on July 3, 1915, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to George and Jessie Raikes. He grew up and attended schools in Culver City, Calif., graduating from Alexander Hamilton High School.

Bill married Evelyn Davis on Nov. 24, 1938 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Bill worked for 20 years as a civilian airplane mechanic with Northrop Corporation at Edwards Air force Base. During that time he served as one of Chuck Yeager’s mechanics, and helped design and build the “Flying Wing,” which later became known as the stealth fighter. He retired from Northrop in 1970. 

Bill and Evelyn moved to Lake Tahoe, where he volunteered as a sheriff deputy. Later they settled in Santa Rosa where he volunteered his airplane knowledge and talents by restoring antique airplanes.

One of his proudest accomplishments was helping restore the “Flying Wing” for the Smithsonian Institute.

In 2003 Bill moved to Sandpoint to be closer to family.

In Lake Tahoe he was active in the Lion’s Club. He also enjoyed fishing, socializing with friends, and playing bridge.

Bill’s family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Huckleberry House, and to Dr. Crane and Susan.

He is survived by three daughters, Barbara Raikes and husband Wayne    Sagle, Idaho, Suzie Ross of Sandpoint, and Patty (Dan) McLaughlin of Hope; four sons, Bill Raikes of Lake Tahoe, Nev., John (Nina) Raikes    of Albuquerque, N.M., Terry (Luann) Raikes of Santa Rosa, Calif., and Ken (Hiroko) Raikes of Denver, Colo.; 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; and a niece, Paulene King of Oroville, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Evelyn; two sisters, Irene and Lois; and three brothers, Marvin, Kenneth, and Elwin.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements.  Please visit William’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.