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William Lotgering Obituary
Although Bill had a history of heart problems, he lived each day of his life in a way that many only think about. Bill was a very determined man who was not satisfied until he mastered whatever new task he took on. A successful downtown business owner, Bill ran his salon, New Attitudes, with a passion for beauty and art. He was a gifted singer, poet and gardener; he skillfully crafted a striking armoire as his first woodworking project and was an accomplished self-taught chef. (They say it's in the genes.) Bill also left his mark in the community as he gave of his time, resources and, most importantly, himself.
Beloved husband of his bride, Valeria, and loving father to Ryan of Billings and dearest brother of Danna Dante of Phoenix and Mary Elizabeth "Liz" Lotgering of Laveta, Colo., and uncle of Julie Mukherjee, Jeremy Ciccati and Jonathan Kellams, Bill is survived by so many aunts, uncles, cousins and devoted friends. His enthusiasm and compassion will be missed more than words can express.
Born in Glendale, Calif., Bill graduated from Verdugo Hills High School. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Sr. and Martha Lotgering.
This Sunday, Bill was on the mountain splitting wood and preparing camp for his annual big game hunt with his dear friend, Don, when he was called by his Heavenly Father for his most amazing experience yet.
Memorial donations may be made to The Good Earth Market, c/o Ann Gunthals, 3110 10th Ave. N., Billings, MT 59101.
Service to be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Smith's Downtown Chapel, with a celebration of life to follow at The Depot from noon to 3 p.m.
Memories and Condolences
for William Lotgering
Anna Jeanette (Haggard) Galata
July 12, 2006
To Bill's Family
I am sorry to hear of the loss of a great guy, he meant a lot to me. I've known Bill since Elementary school, he was popular then and even more popular as in adult. At one of our High School Reunions Bill and I reminisced about long ago and the trouble he would get into. He was always joking around and making everyone feel good about themselves. He was just a downright good guy that will surely be missed.
I know this time is hard for you and your family, but it will pass and you will be remembering the good memories that you've had with him and the love you shared.
Kerry Brown
April 28, 2006
Dear Val, Ryan & Liz,
I am so sorry for your loss. I met Bill about 20 years ago in Farmington, N.M. We became great friends and still kept in touch after I moved back to Texas. Ryan, your father always wanted the best for you and spoke very highly of you. Val, I am so glad you came into Bill's life, because I have never known him to be so happy. Today I called the salon to wish him a Happy 53rd Birthday, only to find out that he was no longer with us. He will be missed by many.
Mitchell Lane
February 7, 2006
To the Family of Bill Lotgering:
He was my high school buddy. "Billy" made cruising Van Nuys Blvd. fun. With him riding shotgun, my car became a "babe magnet." I'll never forget the night we were in my mom's Thunderbird and pulled onto the 101 by mistake.
I saw Billy several years ago while I was in Sheridan, WY. We played golf and shared fond memories. He showed me the "zipper" on his chest and reminded me we only have so much time on God's green earth. He said, "Make the most of your time so you won't have any regrets." In my heart I know that Billy had no regrets.
Although we were separated by a great distance, we will always be linked together, heart to heart. I know Billy will be waiting for me at Heaven's Gate.
Special note to Liz: Thanks for sharing your brother with so many people. You were blessed.
Best regards,
Mitch
KATHY (TRAPANI) FLANAGAN
February 5, 2006
I GRADUATED WITH BILL FROM VERDUGO HILLS HIGH SCHOOL IN CALIFORNIA.I REMEMBER HIM LIVING IN KAGEL CYN DOWN THE HILL FROM ME AND DRIVING IN HIS RED SPORTS CAR CONVERTIBLE. I JUST MADE CONTACT WITH HIM LAST JANUARY AND WE HAD SUCH A NICE PHONE VISIT I WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING HIM AND MEETING HIS WIFE. I AM SO SORRY WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO DO THAT NOW. WHAT A GREAT GUY THAT WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM. I WILL MAKE THE OTHERS WHO KNEW HIM FROM SCHOOL AWARE OF HIS PASSING.
Dan Ciccati
December 15, 2005
Donna, Liz & Family
I very sorry about your great loss of your beloved brother Bill. The sharing of our love today will be the memories of others tomorrow. I feel your brother shared his love with those around him.
Ken and Diane Surdock
December 14, 2005
Dear Donna and Liz and family,
We pray that God will comfort you in your very sudden loss of Billie. We love you dearly...Your family gave us all many wonderful memories, and Billie was so special. God Be with you. Thanks for letting us sign your guest book.
With love and sympathy,
Ken and Diane
Judy Jones Salerno
November 30, 2005
"But when a man finds delight within himself and feels inner joy and pure contentment in himself, there is nothing more to be done."
Bhagavad-Gita
The beautiful beautiful little boy
grew into that perfect child of God. The memories we hold in our hearts and minds are their gifts left to comfort us during this time of grief and separation. Certainly we know Bill [Billie] had great talent, but most importantly, he came and fulfilled his purpose, to love and be loved.
God Bless You All,
Ancient Friend of our youth,
Judy J. Salerno
JOY KRASNASKY
November 30, 2005
Dear Val, Ryan, Donna, Lizzie, Jonathan, Jeremy and Julie
It still is such a shock to say that Billy has left us. How can you put down all the fond memories we shared as children. Our family is so intertwined with precious memories. Billy had so much zest for life starting as a little blond bomber to a handsome kind and loving man. Talented beyond words. His passion for hair and creating beautify and making you feel beautiful will be missed. I will miss him running his fingers through the back of your hair and saying "I could really do something creative for you".
Val, I'm glad he met you and he found love and happiness even if it was too short of a time. Thank you for giving him what he longed for in his life - LOVE
Joy
John Ostlund
November 16, 2005
Val our thoughts and prayers are with you, God Bless and please accept our love and condolences.
John Ostlund
Tony & Lucy DeCaro
November 15, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Gods peace comfort you (as only He can) in this time of need.
Sandra Genaro/Neves
November 15, 2005
Dear Donna, Liz and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Bill's untimely passing. I will have many fond memories of him from our days in the Valley Branch. I can still picture that little blonde headed boy with the mischevious smile sitting in church and the many dinners we shared with your family.
Billy will be missed by so many friends. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and keep you. Lean on His Everlasting Arms.
Tammi Littrell
November 14, 2005
Dear Val & Ryan, I am so sorry for your loss. I was a client of Bill's for 18 years, one of his first when he moved to MT. Ryan, he always spoke so proudly of you. Val, I am so glad he found you! You changed his life and brought him so much happiness, he gushed when he spoke of you. He even took me next door to show me the ring he was designing for you. He couldn't wait to marry you. I will miss him too. You both will be in my prayers.
Resa Todd
November 13, 2005
To the family, may you feel gifted to have known such a beautiful spirit and our family sends our love & condolences.
From Resa Todd & Family
Roger Huebner
November 13, 2005
Val,
I was saddened to hear of the loss of your husband. My heart goes out to you and you will be in my prayers.
Roger
Gail Santilli
November 11, 2005
I am so saddened to hear of Bill's death. I remember his beautiful laugh and voice. He was full of energy and grace. My deepest sympathy to Donna and Liz, Ryan, Julie, Jeremy, and Jonathan, and to his dear wife, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Josie Genaro-Lee
November 11, 2005
To Valerie,
My deepest sympathy. I grew up with Billy through our church in L.A. We had great times at choir practice, lunch walks, Sunday dinners at the Lotgering house with family. He will be missed by so many of us that knew him at a young age and shared only a small part of his adult life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Josie Genaro
Donna & Liz,
I will truly miss that little brother of yours. We were baptized on the same day, elated with smiles from ear to ear, sharing a wonderful time in our lives. Our deepest sympathy in your loss. Josie Genaro Lee
Pete & Candee Genaro
November 11, 2005
Our hearts are truely saddened by Billy's passing. We loved his generous, warm heart. We'll miss his beautiful voice. The memories of all the great times we had together are many. Love & prayers go out to all of you.
Enos Genaro
November 10, 2005
I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was a dear friend who was a great "jamming" partner and quite the camper. We grew up together through the 70's and also roomed together for about a year in 1979-80. I can reflect on many good times playing my guitar and listening to Bill sing. He will be missed.
Angie Meschke
November 10, 2005
To Bill's Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all and I know Bill will be missed and fondly remembered as a very talented individual and true friend. God Bless You All,
Angie
Leslie King
November 10, 2005
Val,
Bill was my friend and a blessing to me after my husband died 5 years ago. I know intimately the pain you feel now. I wish I could keep you from it. But to keep you from the pain would have meant keeping you from the love the two of you shared. That would have truly been a crime. I could tell, each time, I sat in the chair at the salon, that he loved you completely. When he spoke of you, all tension left him - he was truly happy. I am greatful he found you.
My prayers are with you. I wish you strength in your continued journey.
Kris (Odegaard) Simmons
November 10, 2005
Bill gave me my first opportunity to practice massage therapy in Billings in the early 1990's. I am forever grateful for the experience and support. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.
Carole Love
November 10, 2005
Val & Ryan,
My deepest sympathy to both of you at this time of great loss. Bill was a wonderful man and will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
John McGee
November 10, 2005
Having been able to work with Bill in the beauty sales business for the past 8 years was a great joy.So sorry for your loss..John McGee
Mary Haumesser
November 9, 2005
Being one of Bill's clients, I feel that Billings has lost a "master artist". May God bless him. He will be missed by many.
Randall Schaefer
November 9, 2005
Val,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you remember all the good times you had together!
God Bless.
DESIRAE CONNARD
November 9, 2005
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO VAL AND RYAN
BILL WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND HE ALWAYS TALKED ABOUT YOU BOTH
HE WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY..
Joe Martel
November 9, 2005
Val,
My sincere condolences on your loss,
Joe
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