William B. Coyle

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather William (Bill) Bain Coyle entered eternal life on December 15, 2010 at La Posada Mesilla Valley Hospice. He was born June 29, 1927 in San Pedro, California. Bill is survived by wife Mary Lou, daughters Bonnie Moen, Vicky Smith and husband Bob, Kris Lane and husband Curtis, sons Bill Coyle Jr. and wife Penny, Leonard (Bud) Coyle, daughter-in-law Sandy Coyle, Jim Coyle and wife Cheri, 21 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and many extended family members and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Eva, brother Claude Scott, daughter Kitty Burgander and son Alvin Coyle. Bill spent 83 years on Earth making a mark everywhere he went. As a student in the 1930's and early 40's he often challenged his school teachers academically. He graduated from high school early so that he could join the US Navy during World War II where he served as a UDT squad member at the Battle of Okinawa. He served again when Uncle Sam called during the Korean War where he suffered the wound to his back that caused life-long pain and eventually lead to his death. Bill spent over 30 years as a civilian working for the US Army, (including a period of time in Viet Nam) where he helped to develop early software and hardware systems. He retired from WSMR in 1976 to focus on family and to enjoy his hobbies. As a teenager during the Great Depression, Bill was a competitive swimmer and snow skier in Utah and Idaho. He loved the outdoors including hunting, camping, and fishing. He passed this love on to his children. Before family and work took most of his time, he loved fixing up old cars. When time allowed he enjoyed woodworking but he really found his life's passion upon retirement when he began rock-hunting and jewelry making. Many of his friends and family members still wear beautiful bolo-ties, belt buckles, rings, etc. that he made for them. An amazing skill that baffled all his family members was that he could multiply 5 digit numerals in his head. He loved to read and tell stories. Later in life he developed a deep fondness for audio books. As anyone who ever talked with him can attest, he was an accomplished debater. Upon learning of his passing, his V.A. doctor referred to Bill as a "True Gentleman." At Bill's request cremation will take place and a memorial service to celebrate his life will take place at 6 pm on Monday, December 20, 2010 at Getz Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to La Posada, Mesilla Valley Hospice. PDF Printable Version