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William Black Obituary
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, on May 27, 1933, Bill was a graduate of Bryant University, Smithfield, Rhode Island. Following college, he served as an MP in the U.S. Army in Germany. Bill's sense of adventure took him to Alaska, where he loved taking long road trips and exploring the state and its natural beauty, especially enjoying the aurora borealis, Denali National Park and Chena Hot Springs. Bill made many great, loving friends and touched many lives through his kindness, courage, wisdom, sense of humor and wit. To his many friends and extended family in Alaska, he was lovingly known as "Big Beautiful Bill." Bill was active in the theater, on-stage and behind the scenes. Bill was always referred to as a true gentleman. We all miss him, his great laugh and the sparkle in his eyes.
Bill is survived by his brother Robert (Jean) and by his children, Mark (Sally Coyne), Suzanne Keller (Glenn) and Anthony; his grandchildren, Elena, Holly, Lily and Eamon; and his nieces, Carolyn and Sheila; nephews, Robert and Thomas; as well as his former wife, Patricia Tine. Bill was predeceased by his great friend and companion, Eileen E. O'Keefe, of Red Bank, New Jersey.
Donations in Bill's memory may be made to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital Hospice, 2001 Gillam Way Fairbanks, AK 99701.
If you would like to share a fond memory of William, you may do so by visiting the "Obituaries" link on the funeral home's website: www.legacyalaska.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Black
Gary Seaman
June 14, 2014
God Bless, I only knew Bill a few years - he was one of the kindness people I have ever met. I am proud to have known you.
June 14, 2014
Dear Brother Bill,
I will miss you but, I will be comforted knowing you are now in a better place.
Love ya, Bill
Brother Bob
Barb J
June 12, 2014
I always chose to sit behind you so I could clearly hear your words of experience, strength, and hope. A true gentleman, you will be missed.
Mark Rosen
June 11, 2014
RIP Bill, you were a powerful force in so many lives in the Fairbanks community....
June 8, 2014
Thank you for all you gave, and always listening :) RIP BBB
June 7, 2014
Se e you at the big meeting Triple B. You touched my life in many ways and I am better fir it. Always missed never forgotten. Steve Wikan
Susan Motter
June 7, 2014
I thought of you today and a slight whiff of Opium crossed my senses. Miss you kind sir.
Polly H.
June 6, 2014
You are missed, Big Beautiful Bill. You always offered great insight and advice.
Steve Mitchell
June 6, 2014
I will greatly miss Bill. It was a pleasure to work with him at the Fairbanks Drama Association. Truly, the essence of a gentleman.
June 6, 2014
Dad I love you and miss you
Your loving Daughter, Suzanne
June 6, 2014
Dad I love you and miss you Your loving Daughter, Suzanne
Lewis
May 30, 2014
So sorry for this great loss to the family. There is a depth of compassion felt for you. The loving-kindness of God can sustain you now and in the days ahead. May you find a measure of comfort in the loving support of each other and in the loving memories you share.
Carolyn
May 30, 2014
May perpetual light shine upon him. God bless you Uncle Bill.
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Funeral services provided by:
Chapel of Chimes, Legacy Funeral Homes415 Illinois St., Fairbanks, AK 99701
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