William “Bill” J. Samuelson, age 57, of Helena, Montana passed away July 10, 2016 after a courageous battle with ALS. Bill was born July 1, 1959 in Saint Ignatius, Montana. He was adopted by William and Anne Samuelson.
Bill attended school in Saint Ignatius and went on to college at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana where he graduated with a Master’s degree in Architecture. Following graduation Bill began working for the State of Montana, Department of Military Affairs. Throughout his career he enjoyed many projects all around the state of Montana, but he was particularly proud of the old armory building at the corner of Last Chance Gulch and Lyndale. After 30 years of faithful service Bill began his retirement April 29, 2016.
Throughout his life, Bill enjoyed many things, but was known as an avid “collector of sorts.” His hobbies included darts, stained glass, pennies, photography, and most of all, hot rods. He would spend hours working on and photographing the cars. Maddie and Bill always took great pleasure in going to car shows.
Bill was an active member in the Helena Street Rodders, Last Chance Mustang Club, Specialty Ford Club, The National Dart Association, and the Cathedral of Saint Helena.
A.L.S may have taken his life, but it never took his spirit to love life. His legacy will continue in his personal collection of cars and all the memories attached to them for years to come.
Bill is survived by his wife, Madeline M. Samuelson; his children, Jordan M Samuelson, Jennifer M. Samuelson, Charles X Piasecki, Dominik A. Piasecki, Airman 1st class Piasecki Joseph A.C. and Peanut, the cat.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Owen Samuelson and his mother, Anne T. Samuelson.
In honor of Bill, we invite anyone with a classic car or hotrod to drive it to the funeral liturgy. If you are bringing your classic or hotrod we ask everyone to be at the funeral home by 9:00 a.m. for priority parking to participate in “Bill’s final cruise.” A funeral liturgy will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 23rd at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the “final cruise” in the social hall of the funeral home.
Service Schedule
Funeral Liturgy
10:00 a.m.
Saturday July 23, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the service
Saturday July 23, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
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Allan Stricker says
We knew it was coming, but that doesn’t make it any easier. Bill was a great friend, architect and employee. He served Military Affairs with original designs, dedication to making things the best he could, and dignity for many years – he will be sorely missed.
Freddi Haab-Fiedler says
I am sorry for your loss. I worked with Bill for a number of years at Military Affairs. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sundi West says
I’m sad that Bill is gone. He was always willing to take the time to walk me through his projects and share a laugh. My deepest condolences to his family.
Abby Myhr says
I want you to know that Bill brightened my days at work and he will be greatly missed. He made it very enjoyable to come to work every day and he will forever hold a place in my heart. Just know that my thoughts go out to the family at this difficult time.
Dana Weber says
Bill, you were my friend and coworker for 30 years. I will miss you.
Kenneth E Cottrill says
Bill and I worked together for several years. He was always upbeat and fun to be around. He will be missed by everyone who crossed his path.
Kareen Bangert says
Madeline my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at the loss of Bill. He will be missed.
Kareen Bangert
susan bass proul says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Keep your memories close in your hearts and he will always be with you. —Rich and Susan
Diana Stewart says
I lived across the street from Bill growing up. So shocking to see he is passed. My condolences.
Karen Hofstrand Salomon says
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Bill was my cousin and my memories of him were full of happiness and love. He was such a brilliant man, whose talents reached many. He was too young to leave this world, but you have wonderful memories to keep in your heart always. May God give you strength and many blessings.
Terry Thomas says
Bill and family….My sincere condolences to the entire Samualson family.We have lost a good freind,super person, and a very dedicated street rodder.NO one enjoyed car shows,rod runs,and car oriented events than Bill.Some of us got to enjoy Viva Las Vegas last spring with Bill.His enthusiasm for the entire event got us all excited.A great memory I’ll never forget.What defines your time on this globe isn’t what you get but what you give,Bill always gave his all.Until we meet at our next show…I’ll miss you!
Connie Sands Jerome says
Bill was my classmate all throughout high school at Capital High School, graduating class of 1977. Our names were close so we were always in line for things together. Bill was always a gentlemanly type, with a smile and a twinkle in his eye. I’m so sorry about his passing and will be praying for the family. Rest in Peace old friend.
Sandy Carroll says
Rest in peace. Praying for your family.
Tracy Grove says
Jenny and Jordan
Sorry for your loss. Just know that we are thinking about you and have you in our prayers. If you need anything just let us know. Love you both. Aunt t
Tracy and Grandpa Harold.
Doug Johnson says
Even though I only knew Bill a short time I feel very blessed to have met him and be able to call him a friend. He had a passion for life and cars that was second to none. His knowledge of all things automotive was incredible. But most of all he was a wonderful man.
Bill thank you for your friendship…..Viva Las Vegas and May God bless you my friend!
Doug and Melissa Johnson