William G. Applegate Sr.

Col. William G. Applegate USA (Ret) After a long and courageous struggle William Applegate, Sr. passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends on May 27 2009 at the age of 90. Bill was a devoted husband and dedicated father, beloved grandfather, and cherished great grandfather. He is preceded by his loving wife Dorothy. He is mourned by his son Bill and his wife Conchita, son Robert, and daughter Mary (and partner Christopher); his grandchildren Kenneth (Clarice), Michael, Paul, Marie (Mikie), and James; and his great grandchildren Keilani, Natasha, Vivien, William Kalel and Anthony Zane. Bill is also mourned by his loving sister Buddy Rowley and her daughters Susan and Sally. His family and friends will greatly miss his gentleness, kindness, generosity, great patience and his special compassion for people. Colonel William "Bill" Applegate was a 32 year veteran of the U.S. Army, with service to country spanning three wars: WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Bill was a soldier's soldier, respected by his troops and superiors alike. He received numerous awards and citations. His resilient yet gentle character harkens to his pioneer-like upbringing in Montana. He was a great " ambassador "for America in his many overseas tours. Bill was an avid outdoor sportsman and had great respect for the environment. Bill was actively involved in family, church and community. He was a Scoutmaster, a member of the Knights of Columbus. and a strong pro-life supporter, especially for the unborn. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3rd at St. Stephen Church, 601 Eucalyptus Dr., San Francisco with a Rosary/Vigil service to be held later that evening at 7 p.m. also at St. Stephens. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 4th at St. Stephens Church with a committal and full Military Honors to immediately follow Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 1500 Old Mission Road, Colma, CA. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Our Lady of the Rockies, 3100 Harrison Ave., Butte, MT, 59701 telephone, 1-800-800-LADY or visit www.ourladyoftherockies.com