Obituary of William 'Bill' Charles Lopeman

William Charles Lopeman “Billy” born in Shelton, WA on April 29, 1946 to Mary Whitener and Ernest Lopeman. Billy grew up in rural Kamilche surrounded by his Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and friends. He lived in Seattle for a bit working as a mechanic, and a floor and tile company. He was a commercial fisherman most of his life and a shellfish harvester. Mike Brownfield and Bill fought for our shellfish rights on their own with no support from the Tribe. Both were arrested numerous times and argued about U and A for shellfish rights for Squaxin Island Tribe. As they continued to fight they brought in other tribal members like Yum Krise. Most will remember Bill as the Pull Tab Man. He started in the original Bingo Hall in the Gymnasium then continued working in Little Creek Casino where he eventually retired from. He spent his leisure time hanging out with his daughters, and grandchildren on their daily visits. He liked having friends and relatives stopping by to visit and gossip. He’s also remembered for being a Prankster. Funeral Services are Thursday December 12, 2019 at the Squaxin Island Tribe Gymnasium viewing will start at 10am and the funeral start at 11 am burial at Squaxin Sacred Ground cemetery meal to follow graveside service in the community kitchen.