William "Bill" Burton Karr Jr.

United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) William “Bill” Burton Karr Jr. (75) of Windsor, Colorado passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 1st 2026.

Born July 26, 1950 in North Platte, Nebraska to Bill and Elaine Karr. Bill spent much of his youth in Colorado and Montana, eventually returning to North Platte to graduate from High School. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English at the University of Nebraska, Kearney, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force in March of 1977. In the Air Force Bill graduated from Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, and Air War College.

Bill’s last duty assignment was as a Command and Control Warrior. Although his accomplishments were many, Bill’s favorite mission was looking for Russian bombers along the United States border near Alaska.

During his service Bill received many medals and awards including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM), Air Medal (AM), Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, an Army Commendation Medal, a Combat Readiness Medal, two Bronze Stars and many other awards, citations and ribbons.

Bill’s dedication and loyalty extended well beyond his Nation and the Air Force. He was generous, loving, and loyal to his family and community. In his leisure time Bill enjoyed boating, water skiing, snow skiing, camping, sports, and Cornhusker Football. Bill’s love of literature led him to becoming a member of the Windsor-Severance Library Board for several years.

Bill married his wife Sue in 1980 while stationed in Texas and welcomed step daughter Laura into the family. In 1982 Bill and Sue welcomed daughter Gwen into the family. Bill retired from service in 2005. After retirement, Bill and Sue traveled the United States in an RV with the goal to visit every National Park. During their travels, Sue was diagnosed with ALS. In 2008 Sue passed after a three year battle with the disease.

On Nov. 11, 2011 Bill married Sondra Peterson a former college class mate and friend. They resided in Windsor, Colorado until Bill’s passing.

Bill is survived by his wife Sondra, daughter Gwen, brother Bob, step daughter Laura and step sons Aaron and Leif.

Bill will be laid to rest with full honors at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska on Friday, July 10th 2026 at 12:00 noon.

Memorials may be made in Bill’s name to the POLG Foundation or to a charity of your choosing.

Rest in peace Lieutenant Colonel William B Karr Jr. Your service is cherished by a grateful nation and loving family. Your mission is complete.