Bill was born on a farm in Sutherland NE to Almer and Acenath Hughes. He graduated from Sutherland High School and left for Longview Texas to attend LaTourneau College. Graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Joined the USAF in 1960 as a navigator. Beginning his career flying B57 doing nuclear testing WB47 with Air Weather Reconnaissance, B57 and C47 in Viet Nam, B52 with Strategic Air Command, EC 135 ACCS Airborne Command and Control squadron. Retiring from the Air Force in Rapid City in 1962. He then started is own business mowing soccer fields for the city and was recognizable by the yellow lab accompanying him.