William J. “Bill” Lannan, 85, passed away peacefully December 9, 2016 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana. Bill was the third of four children born to James W. & Agnes D. Lannan on June 22, 1931 in Sheridan, Wyoming. He attended Holy Name Catholic School and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1949.
Bill’s passion for golf began at an early age helping his parents who managed the Kendrick Municipal Golf Course in Sheridan. He won the high school championship four consecutive year,; the Wyoming Junior Golf championship, and competed in the National Tournament in Houston, Texas.
In the fall of 1951, Bill arrived at Carroll College, where under the mentorship of Bishop Bernard Topel, he excelled in math and physics. Bill won the Montana Collegiate Golf Championship four consecutive years, (before Frontier Conference) and was inducted into Carroll’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990. He graduated in 1954 with a degree in math.
It was during his years at Carroll that Bill met Gail Milch and they were married on August 28, 1954 in St. Helena Cathedral.
Following the wedding, they headed for the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, where Bill entered the graduate program in physics. Bill spent time in Old Brace Lab, tutored foreign students and Gail worked at Love Memorial Library. Upon graduation in 1956 with a Master’s in physics, Bill was hired by Hughes Aircraft as a research physicist/engineer at the Culver City, California plant. He worked primarily on the Falcon air-to-air missile.
A call form Archbishop Raymond Hunthuasen brought Bill back to his Carroll “family” as Chairman of the Physics Department.
For the next seven years, Bill was involved with teaching, coaching the golf team and establishing the 3/2 engineering program that connected with MSU, Notre Dame and Columbia. This successful program continues at Carroll.
During the summers, Bill was in charge of a survey crew for the forest service and spent time backpacking into the wilderness area near Helena with family and friends.
It was at Carroll that Bill established a life-long friendship with one of his students – Roy Simperman (1962). In later years, Bill assisted Roy with the Elsie Pauly-Corette scholarship program for students pursuing medical school. Roy’s ongoing generosity also established the William J. Lannan endowed Chair of Physics at Carroll to honor his treasured friendship.
Bill also served on the Board of the Helena Davis Medical Scholarship Committee.
Bill began his 32 years with the university system, including the role of Institutional Studies Office of the Executive Secretary, in 1964. These areas of responsibility expanded to the Community college Coordinator; Vocational Education Liaison; Capital Construction Committee; Federal Projects Coordinator; and Liaison to Registrars & Admission Officers.
In 1980, Bill became the Director of the Guaranteed Student Loan Program, formed by the Montana Legislature and placed under the direction and supervision of the Board of Regents. He was responsible for the long-range building program for 28 years and worked for 11 different commissioners. Someone said (rightfully so) it was a testament to his patience and resolve!
Bill had an outstanding & supportive staff at GSL. They admired his commitment to education, his leadership style, and enjoyed his humor and jovial laugh. The female staff also enjoyed the roses from his garden during the summer and endowed him with the title BBE (Best Boss Ever)!
Travels with his job provided Bill with the opportunity to play some of the great golf course in the US with special friends. The two most memorable for him were Pebble Beach (his boyhood dream) and Pinehurst #2. Augusta and St. Andrew’s remained on his “bucket list.”
Bill was honored at retirement in 1996 with letters of appreciation from both state and federal officials, as well as his professional friends in education. He returned to his passion – coaching the Fighting Saints Gold Team. Bill was deeply involved with the Helena Golf Community as a board member of Green Meadow CC and bill Roberts Golf courses, played men’s league at both facilities and was instrumental in moving the administrative building of Bill Roberts some 30 years ago. Bill was a member of the USGA, a certified golf judge, a member of the State Golf Association, and a member of the USGA Montana Golf Rating Team. He was also an avid collector of golf memorabilia.
Bill was a man of deep faith and proud to be part of St. Helena Cathedral parish and their RE Board. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 844, and a Boy Scout Leader of Troop 214.
Bill is survived by his wife, Gail; his children: William Jr. (Jean), Bernard (Judy), Brian (Alexis), Barry, and Lara (Jim) Thomas; grandchildren: Abigail, Brendan, Rheti, Ryann, Lindsey, Lauren, Nickolette, Cory & Rick Chavez; sister: Mary Agnes Swarthout (Clarence Jr.); sisters-in-law: Treva & Glenda Lannan; and numerous nephews and nieces. Proceeding him in death were his parents; brothers: James and John Lannan; nephews: John Jr. and Jeffrey; niece: Colleen DiPaulo; and father & mother-in-law: John & Alice Milch.
Join us in celebrating Bill’s exceptional life at his Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 27th at St. Helena Cathedral, 530 N. Ewing St., Helena. A Luncheon will follow in the Brondel Center. Burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials in honor of Bill are suggested to Carroll College – Office of Institutional Development, 1601 N. Benton, Helena, MT 59601 or to St. Helena Cathedral, 530 N. Ewing, Helena, Mt 59601 or to a charity of your choice. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Bill.
Our family would like to express our gratitude to the Touchmark Memory Care staff and St. Peter’s Hospice for their loving and respectful care of Bill during his final days.
“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought, and decision we make. Their love leaves an incredible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” – Joe Buscaglia
Service Schedule
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Thursday April 27, 2017
St. Helena Cathedral
530 N. Ewing Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following Mass
Thursday April 27, 2017
Brondel Center
530 N. Ewing St.
Helena, Montana 59601
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John Tuffli says
My sincere regrets for your loss.
Tom Naegele says
Lannan Family,
Prayers of Support to you all. Bill was a Fine man & I am Blessed that he mentored me in my life. GOD Blessing you all during this difficult time.
Allen Stenhjem Family says
Bill will be truly missed by all that crossed his trail . God Bless………………..
Tony Damico says
To my loyal and forever friend Gail, Bill’s wife. My heart and prayers are with you asking that you be filled with the Peace of Christ and the strength that it brings.
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is being celebrated tomorrow for Bill and the following day for you at St. Jude’s here in Dallas.
Bill was a gift from God to you and you were a gift of God to Bill. At this time of loss and sorrow cherish how wonderful those gifts were and have been over all the years of your commitment to one another and partnership in marriage.
Even though you are in no hurry to get there, I know that Bill awaits your arrival in God’s Heavenly Kingdom. Likewise I’m sure Bill is out golfing while he waits for you to arrive.
With all of my love dear friend!
Leona Zaharko says
Gail is also my wonderful friend. But I do know Bill, also, from the retail store where I work. Bill is now at peace and pain-free. Gail, always remember your saying to me “LOVE NEVER ENDS”
Rose Harmon says
My family and I will always remember Bill as “The Best Boss Ever!” a statement that Ben and Evan came up with when they were in their pre-school years. The praise and joy I shared with my family about my days working with Bill rubbed off on those kids, and I think they will continue to dub him as The Best Boss Ever throughout their grown-up years. He really was that good! I could tell that Bill was an extremely fun and caring person from the moment I got his telephone call offering me a job. I embarrassed myself by uncontrollably articulating a crazy “WooHoo!” and I believe he could tell that I was jumping for joy on my end of the phone. Laughing, he set me at ease saying it was great to hear my excitement about getting to work for him. And the years with My Boss Bill were incredibly fun and exciting, and he definitely was the Best Boss Ever for lots, if not all of the people that worked for him. I have enjoyed my continuing friendship with Bill over the years, always being greeted with a kiss on the cheek, and parting with his blessing of “keep the faith”. Gail, thank you for being a wonderful wife, friend and comrade for this great and humble man. There’s a hot apple pie in your near future. Mine and Will’s love to you and your family, Rose
Jim Stipcich says
My relationship with at least one member of the Lannan family has covered the last 45 years on an almost daily basis. Bill has had such a powerful impact in my life. Time may fly, but the influence of those great people in your life is timeless.
Bill and I first became acquainted when I was in High School where he shared his great sons Bill, Bern and Brian with me and Bill Jr and I became best of friends. I was overwhelmed to see how great of a father Bill was. And what a special part of my life it was to get to know Gail and Lara then as well.
Bill and my paths crossed again soon after I was out of college when I learned he was leader and doer involved in addressing a lifelong passion of mine….. That is Making a Difference in Student’s Lives. In so many ways, he truly allowed me to pursue this passion for the last 33 years…. from encouraging me to pursue my passion, …to providing me an opportunity to pursue my passion…. to leading the effort to get the State of Montana involved in some many ways….to showing me how to be an effective leader…. to showing me how to build organization. .. to showing me how to balance leadership with compassion for employees…. to trying to show me important balance in ones work life and personal and life really is. After all isn’t that the real role of golf…. to showing me how important family is.
I was elated when Bill was hired as the Director of the Montana Guaranteed Student Loan Program as it provided the opportunity for me to work in concert on a daily basis with him. For many years as we both led our respective organizations providing the opportunity for more than 200,000 Montana students to be able to pursue their dreams of a higher education. What a difference Bill’s vision has actually made for Montanan’s. Bill was the consummate professional and his passion for making a difference in his quiet but so effective manner came through over and over during our joint professional paths. Bill was a great mentor to myself and so many others that he has helped. He cared deeply about humans beings and about opportunities for all. Not only did he care about people having opportunities, he created opportunities for people. That is a true gift.
I have been so honored and fortunate to have had the chance to have the all of the members of the Lannan family s such a major part of my life. I will miss Bill immensely. I send all of you my love. God Bless Bill in his well deserved peace and all of you.
Jim Stipcich
Frances Simperman says
Although I was not there at the time, I know Bill and Gail were great mentors to my husband Roy and many other students at Carroll College. Roy maintained a close personal relationship that continues to this day. Through their bond of friendship it has been my great pleasure to know Bill and Gail over the past fifteen years. Our trips to Helena were always highlighted by dinner with Bill and Gail reliving fond memories and catching up on family news. I will miss him greatly and I pray for Gail’s health and happiness as she adjusts to the loss of her lifetime companion.
My love and prayers are with you Gail,
Your friend
Frances Simperman
Hidde Van Duym says
Bill was my colleague and friend at the Office of the Board of Higher Education. His wisdom and sense of humor were my life support. He was the kind of person whose presence you never forget.
Hidde Van Duym, Bainbridge Island, Washington
Leah Howery says
Gail, I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for the honor of letting me help care for him. He was such a sweet man. All my love and prayers.
Roy F. Simperman says
My Physics Professor
My Best Man
My Scholarship Program Chairman
My Very Good Friend
In Memoriam: ” Lannan Chair of Physics”, Carroll College, Helena, MT
Julie and Leo Ward says
Our thoughts are with Gail and all of the Lannan family. Our Love to you!
Aggie Frankino says
My thoughts and prayers are with Gail and family. Bill was. A wonderful man and very proud of all of you. May you find comfort in each other and your happy memories.
God bless
Leo &a Mae Walchuk says
Gail, our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family! May you find comfort knowing he is in a better place & at peace! God Bless all!
Deb Hendrix says
Bill Lannan was one of the good guys…some of my fondest memories are the days back working at Commissioner of Higher Education and Guaranteed Student Loan. Bill was one of those guys that loved his family, friends and life. My heartfelt sympathies to Gail and family.
Tim Easton says
Gail and Family.
So sorry to hear about Bills passing. Always remember all the good memories and golf games with Bill. Was a Gentleman and Friend. Prayers and Condolences to all
Beth kenney says
Lara, so sorry to hear about your dad. He always made me laugh and was so kind. I remember him bringing us ladies at the offices roses every week in the summer. It always made my day. Take good care and know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ron and Beth Kenney
Chuck Johnson says
To the Lannan family,
I had the privilege of knowing Bill and covering him as a newspaper reporter over the years. He was a gentleman and was always very helpful. He was a good man who did a lot of good things for his community and his state. He will be missed by many.
Deb Monroe says
Bill Lannan is and was one of the three most important men in my life. I have shared this story with anyone who ever would listen. I met Bill as a temporary worker for Montana Guaranteed Student Loan Program. After two weeks, the day I was preparing for my interview to be his Administrative Assistant, I got a phone from the school telling me my son, on the first day of school, was in the office and I needed a form so he could attend class. I was in tears because my boy was sitting there waiting for me (no cells then) and it was my time to be interviewed. Bill came and held my hands and told me to go take care of my son and my family. If I didn’t give 100% to my family then he would only get half of that. I have never forgotten that and have used it with employees for over 20 years. There as so many stories like this I could share. He made me a much better person for having been blessed to call him a friend and able to work with this man for several years. A few of us would still have lunch and share our love and respect for each other but especially him. Bill I know your faith has carried you on to be with your Lord and I know your family will find comfort in this. He loved his family so much as evidenced in his guidance to others. Bill you were with me when I was very ill and were the only one other than my family allowed in ICU to see me every day. I will miss you and as Rose said, our kisses on the cheek. He loved everyone. Gail, Lara and the rest of the family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I know it is immense. Find comfort in all these stories of love and how he touched so many people and made us better for having had him in our lives.
Theresa King says
Dear Gail and Family,
The Burgess Family sends our deepest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of grief. Life is such a gift and so precious, but also very hard when we lose the ones we love the most. Many Blessings.
Bill Johnston says
To the Lannan family. The higher education community in Montana has lost one of its strongest advocates. In so many ways either through working, developing policies or through his wonderful way of extending his hand (and smile) to help someone, Bill made a difference in so many lives. You mention Bill’s name and instantly people would have their favorite “Bill” story. It most often involved how Bill helped someone. Bill did random acts of kindness before the phrase was coined. To Bill’s family, thank you for letting us also get to know what a wonderful person he was. And for supporting his life’s work in education.
Bill Johnston,
President and CEO emeritus
University of Montana Alumni Association
Donna Sirucek says
Gail, I am so sorry for your loss, I know the Lord will look over you but I am here to give you a hug or just an ear to talk to. Thinking of you
Dan McGowan says
Gail and family:
So sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jacki (Wrigg) Cowles says
Bill was a great gentleman and I so enjoyed the years I worked with him at the Commissioner of Higher Education. Someone else has mentioned the beautiful roses he always brought. The simple act was very touching. When I was a single mother with a son entering college at MT Tech, Bill was the one who helped me get a financial grant and took me through all the steps to get him other aid. He always CARED. I know I was only one of many that he helped along the way. I know what a loss this has to be for all of the family. I am thinking and praying for you at this time. Take Care
Mary Ahmann Hibbard says
Bill was always one of my favorites! My heart goes out to you Gail. He is with some fine folks on the other side! Sending love to you and your family.
Clare Ward-Jenkins says
So sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.
Brian & Jean Peacock says
Gail & Family,
We are sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. Bill was a true gentleman on and off the golf course. We enjoyed our time with him at GMCC. Blessings to you.
Brian & Jean Peacock
Delores Hill says
So, so sorry for your loss, Gail. Did not know Bill well, but just know he was a devoted and loving husband and father. He will be missed by many. Love and prayers. God Bless!!
A Blount says
To the Family of William Lannan
I am sorry for your loss. Grief can be so hard to deal with, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today. 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 reminds us that God is always there to comfort us. I pray this helps you to find solace.
Londa Burns says
Lara and family. Bill was such a good man. After he retired I always thought the sweetest thing he did was bringing Lara her lunch most days. I know you will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with Londa Burns
Matt & Mary Kunnary says
Gail & family – Bill was such a wonderful man. A joy to be around. Having known him for many years and also his time at Carroll College. He is now in good hands with God at his side. Until we meet again. God’s Blessings to you Gail and your family.
Matt & Mary Kunnaary
Patty(Lannan) Borst and Glenda Lannan and Family says
Dear Aunt Gail and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are will you all during this difficult time. What a wonderful memorial you have written and what an amazing life. Mom and I would have really loved to be at the memorial, I know it will be beautiful.
God Bless
Much Love,
Patty, Ken, Katie, Kenny and Emily Borst, and Glenda Lannan
Jo and Paul Bryson says
We are so very sorry for your loss ? Our thoughts and prayers are with you! ????
Roy F. Simperman says
My sincere condolences to Gail, Bill, Brian, Barry, Bern and Laura. The Best advice that Bill gave to me was when I suggested that I was thinking of learning how to play golf. Bill paused and said “When that thought comes up again, give me a call and I will talk you out of it!”
Dominus Vobiscum, my dear friend!
Pat Peterson says
Gail,
My thoughts are with you and your family. He was a very gifted man and was fortunate to have you by his side.
God Bless!
Pat Peterson
Donna Wise says
Bill and I send heartfelt sympathy to all the Lannan famly. You’re in our prayers and thoughts.