William Robert "Buddy" Voegele

William Robert “Buddy” Voegele, 86, of Little Rock passed away August 10, 2022.  He was born October 16, 1935 in Little Rock to the late A.E. and Martha Voegele.

Buddy is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sue; son Robert (Missy) of Benbrook, Texas; two daughters, Melissa Hale (Bob), and Julie Voegele all of Little Rock; grandchildren, Conner Kathleen Hale, Ashli Hale, and Houston Hale of Little Rock, Taylor Hale and Amanda Hicks of Morrilton, Madison and Josh Rodriguez of Benbrook Texas; and sister Jean Watts of Fort Worth.

Buddy was an athlete all his life, participating in several sports at 4^th Street Junior High, North Little Rock High School and Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) the current University of Central Arkansas (UCA). At NLR High School he made all district, all regional, all state and Sports Illustrated All American football team his senior year.

After high school graduation, Buddy served in the Navy for six years.  He was a diver and welder.

Buddy attended ASTC on a football scholarship after completing his military service.  He was selected all AIC four years. Buddy was inducted into the UCA Sports Hall of Fame (football and track) in 2010.

Buddy met sue, a cheerleader, during his first football season at ASTC.  They celebrated 60 years of marriage in June and have three amazing children.

Buddy and family moved to Fort Worth in 1966, where he drilled and serviced water wells.

After retiring in 1997, Buddy and Sue moved back to Arkansas.  Buddy was an avid golfer during retirement.  He played with Arkansas Pro-Am group winning many tournaments. Buddy volunteered several years at his church, Gardner UMC North Little Rock.  He was always available to assist anyone who needed help.

Buddy was well known for his BIG hugs and sticking out his tongue as a friendly gesture.  He would meet you anytime or anywhere for a cheeseburger or dessert.

Buddy was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to everyone. We miss him already.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Arkansas Hospice Foundation

14 Parkstone Circle

North Little Rock, AR 72116

Service and interment with military honors is 9:00 AM Thursday, August 18, 2022 at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. 

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.--