Billy J. Pape, 93, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2026, in Pinedale, Wyo., surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 11, 1932, in LaGrange, Texas, Billy spent his childhood and high school years in South Texas, graduating from Premont High School in Premont, Texas. He was later drafted into the United States Army, where he served for two years in Germany and had the unique opportunity to play football in the European Football League.
Following his military service, Billy made his way to Jackson, Wyo., where he worked alongside his brother Charlie. He eventually settled in Pinedale, where he met the love of his life, Annette Romish. The two were married on November 20, 1959, beginning a lifetime together that would span nearly 67 years. Billy and Annette became familiar faces in the Pinedale community as the owners and operators of The Patio Grill, a business they successfully ran together for more than 40 years before retiring.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Evelyn Pape; his brothers, John, Earl, Charlie, and Ray Pape; and his sister, Edna Pickerell. He is survived by his beloved wife, Annette; their children, David (Diane) Pape, Terry (Jack) Cain, Mark (Sharon) Pape, and Billy Pape; as well as eleven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Billy leaves behind a legacy of family, hard work, and a life well lived. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
