William Nolan Fenimore IV

Billy Fenimore, age 51, passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2022 after a recent diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare neurodegenerative disorder, which he battled with strength and dignity until the end.

Billy was born on September 15, 1970 in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico to William Fenimore III and Estrella Fenimore. A few years

later, his family moved to his father’s hometown of Chester, Pennsylvania, where Billy first developed his love for the outdoors. His family ultimately settled in Farmington, Utah.

Billy began his career in the food manufacturing business, at Horizon Snack Foods. He worked at every position in the plant before being promoted to plant manager. Billy proudly served in that role until 2006, when he pursued another path and focused on his passion for nature, especially the birds.

Billy worked alongside his father Bill, who was his mentor and best friend, until his passing in 2015. They first worked together at the Wild Bird Center, and then Billy opened up his own business, Wild About Birds, in 2011. He also had an eco- tourism business guiding on Deseret Ranch and throughout the Intermountain West, engaging birdwatchers from around the world with his charming personality and his knowledge and passion for the birds.

Billy became the director of the Eccles Wildlife Education Center in 2018, a position that was a dream come true for him. He worked tirelessly to create a grand gathering place for the community to foster their love of nature. He especially enjoyed teaching young people and growing his army of “champions of all things wild”.

Billy’s love for nature and wildlife was infectious. He would stop in his tracks, and his eyes would light with excitement, every time he spotted an animal out in the wild or a bird flying in the sky. He had a genuinely kind soul, and had the gift of making everyone he met feel special. Billy had a great sense of humor, often playing pranks and subjecting us to his good- natured ribbing. He loved sports, especially the Philadelphia Eagles, and seemed to think they could hear him if he yelled loud enough at the television.

Billy’s dedication to the natural world was surpassed only by his commitment to his family and friends who he loved deeply. He was fiercely loyal and there was nothing he wouldn’t do or sacrifice for his loved ones. We are heartbroken by his loss, and promise to live each day in honor of his memory.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Patty, his children Payton (Zach), Nolan and Bella, his grandchildren Vincent and Jude, his mother Estrella, his sister Maria, and many nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, May 15, 2022 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Stark’s Funeral Parlor. Guests are encouraged to use the North parking lot.