William Ross Runbeck

WILLIAM ROSS RUNBECK born August 6, 1923 in Kansas City, Mo and died on November 28, 2008 at Clear Lake Regional Hospital resulting from numerous heart and cancer complications. He is preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel E. Runbeck, beloved wife, Lily Rose Runbeck, their extended family Marynell and Don Corrigan, and so many incredible friends in Houston, California, and Kansas City, Mo. Bill grew up in Kansas City, Mo. attending elementary school thru high school. Prior to attending college and majoring in Engineering, Bill joined the U.S. Navy and served in the South Pacific during WWII. On August 14th, 1947, Bill married the love of his life and his soul mate Lily Rose Lyons. From that day forward they never let an opportunity, trip or just reason to enjoy friends and party pass them by. In 1975 Bill retired from Fluor Corporation in Houston Texas, and he and Lil took retirement to a new and exciting level. Initially they cruised 5 years touring the Bahamas and the East Coast, followed by an 18 month stent of traveling and living through Europe, followed by 5 years exploring the United States aboard their Motor Coach, this was followed by returning to their roots in Kansas City where they rekindled old friends from elementary school on and became a driving force in organizing elementary school and high school reunions, then it was on the road again for another three years just to be sure they did not miss a U.S. stop, and finally returning to family and home in Clear Lake. They never stopped having fun or making the most of every moment together! Bill lost his soul mate Feb. 1, 1997, and never fully recovered from the loss. Though illness did cause him to slow down and took a bit of his spark, he really lost the lust for life when Lily Rose's blossom left us. He was blessed with so many wonderful friends throughout his life. His time both with Lil and following her death held such fond memories and friends at Lakewood Yacht Club where he really considered it home. As he was a strong Democrat, he enjoyed sparking a good political debate with his coffee group. He is survived by his poodle companion, Bitta; loving daughter Cheri and her husband Andrew who not only was the most amazing son in law, but a friend and confidant as well. He is also survived by a special nephew, Doug Corrigan. Bill and Lil considered their dogs' as key members of their family, and Bill would appreciate instead of any flowers that contributions are made to the SPCA of your choice.