William Allan Thaanum Jr., age 87, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2013 at his home in East Helena, Montana. He was born December 2, 1925 to William Thaanum, Sr. and Blanche Peterson Thaanum in Conrad, Montana.
Bill graduated from Conrad High School and began his college education but had to take time out to serve as a corpsman in the US Navy in the Pacific during World War II. After completing his service he returned to Montana to continue his education in Zoology. Bill married Marjorie Rossberg in Conrad on May 28, 1948. They had four daughters and his career took the family to Portland, Spokane, Houston, Nashville and the San Francisco Bay area before returning to Portland. After retirement, Bill and Marjorie moved to Langlois, Oregon on the southern Oregon Coast and lived there until their daughters suggested it was time to give up the ocean views and rain of Oregon for the mountain views and snow of Montana. Bill and Marjorie moved to East Helena in September 2012.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Marjorie of almost 65 years: his daughters, Cindy (Nelson) Smallwood of Sandy, Oregon; Debbe (Mark) Malensek of East Helena; Becky (Paul) Martello of Helena and Susan (Tim) Voorhies of Sherwood, Oregon. Bill is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren (plus 2 more due this spring) and his beloved cat, Boots.
Bill will be greatly missed by his family and everyone who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held this summer. To offer a condolence to the family or share a memory of Bill, please visit below.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
1:30 p.m.
Monday July 1, 2013
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Fort Harrison , Montana
Reception
Following service
Monday July 1, 2013
Family's home
2625 Stagecoach Dr.
East Helena , Montana 59635
Interment
2:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 2, 2013
Trinity Lutheran Cemetery
435 19th Road N.W.
Choteau, Montana 59422
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
1:30 p.m.
Monday July 1, 2013
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Fort Harrison , Montana
Reception
Following service
Monday July 1, 2013
Family's home
2625 Stagecoach Dr.
East Helena , Montana 59635
Interment
2:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 2, 2013
Trinity Lutheran Cemetery
435 19th Road N.W.
Choteau, Montana 59422
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P. Rick House says
Marge – We were so sorry to hear about Bill. I remember the hours he spent working on the organ you donated to the church years ago. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. We miss you and are praying for you. Rick House