William Paul “Bill” Roney

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(Oct. 20, 1927- Aug. 27, 2013)

William Paul “Bill” Roney, 85, died Aug. 27, 2013 in Butte, Mont.

He was born on Oct. 20, 1927 in Powell, the youngest son of Harrison Paul Roney and Margaret Mae Bradford. He grew up in Powell with his older brother, Lewis Alexander.

Bill was an excellent athlete playing football, basketball and participating in track at Powell High School, earning varsity letters in each of his 4 years.

He went on to Montana State University, where he was named as Most Valuable Player in 1952 and All Conference Defensive Center and Defensive Guard. Bill was a member of “The Montana Club,” earning varsity letters and honors for his beloved Bobcats from 1951-54.

He was married to Frances Lucille Davis, his brown-eyed girl, formerly of Cody, for 56 years.

Bill was a longtime resident and educator in Billings, Mont., moving there in 1956. He worked for School District No. 2 as a biology teacher and coach at Billings Senior High until he retired.

He volunteered for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management for many years and was an active member in The Yellowstone Audubon Society, participating in countless bird surveys, while sharing his love and passion for birds and the outdoors. Bill passed his love of nature to his family. He was a member of Gold Hill Lutheran Church and had a strong, quiet faith.

He loved his family, and his family meant everything to him.

He is survived by three daughters, Kathy (Ross) Ferguson and Kris Roney of Melbourne, Australia, Kim (Marshal) Mickelson of Butte; a son, Paul (Martha) Roney of Albuquerque, N.M.; his grandchildren, Andrew (Kirsten) and David Ferguson; Bianca, Corinne, Lauren and Verity; Ryan, Laura and Maggie Mickelson; and Sean, Patrick and Abigail Roney; two great-grandchildren; four nephews and a cousin.

A celebration of his life will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, at Gold Hill Lutheran Church, 934 Placer St., in Butte.   

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his brother; his wife; and two infant sons.

His ashes will be interred with his wife and two infant sons at The Crown Hill Cemetery in Powell.

Memorials may be made to Rocky Mountain Hospice, Gold Hill Lutheran Church or to The Alzheimer’s Association, 3010 11th Ave. North, Billings, MT 59101.

Arrangements are under the direction of Axelson Alternative Cremation.

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