Bill Ilgen

A longtime resident of Spokane, William P. Ilgen Jr. (Bill), age 97, joined his beloved wife, Mary, in the arms of God on December 3rd. Bill was born in Mobridge, South Dakota on January 25, 1928, to William P. Ilgen Sr. and Mildred Ilgen (nee Skola). After graduating high school in Sioux Falls, Bill attended the University of Nebraska and became a Navy fighter pilot after graduation. Bill was honored to be a pilot and always proudly kept his wings on display in his office. Upon leaving the Navy, Bill married Mary Gdanitz in August 1953 and together had 6 children (Mary Margaret, Brian, Ann, Tim, Laura and Margo). He returned to the University of Nebraska to complete his MS and PhD in Civil Engineering in 1968.

Bill's advanced degree led to his role as Professor of Engineering at Gonzaga University. He became Dean of Engineering there in 1975. Bill's tenure as Dean saw the accreditation of the civil, electrical and mechanical engineering programs. Bill also led the effort to construct improvements to the Gonzaga engineering building when it expanded to become the Herak Center. His efforts led to his colleagues calling him the "second founder" of the School of Engineering. Bill was also involved in multiple building projects around Spokane – including the Opera House for Expo 1974.

While a resident of Spokane, he was a devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Parish. He was a mentor to so many and made himself available to anyone in need well into his 90's. He dearly loved his wife, Mary, and cared for her until her passing in 2016. He is survived by Brian Ilgen (Ilze), Ann Kester (David), Fr. Tim Ilgen, Laura Suter (Charles), and Margo Derr (Andrew). He was extremely proud and loved his children, grandchildren (Ingrid, Katherine, John, Sascha, Megan, Matthew, Renae, and Emily) and great grandchildren (Tristin, Asher, Johanna, Allison, Gabriel, Alexander, and Charlene).

His presence will be sorely missed. However, his trials and pain are no longer, and he is in the presence of God who he praised above all. Services will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Spokane Valley on December 10, 2025, at 11:00 with a rosary prior at 10:30. A reception will follow in the parish hall.