William Edward Samuels

William E. Samuels, affectionately known as Bill, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, at his residence in Gillette.

He was born on Jan. 3, 1945, in Fort Benning, GA ( where his dad was stationed) to Harold and June (Spielman) Samuels, one of two children.

Bill was raised in Gillette and was a man of many accomplishments who lived a life filled with hard work and dedication. Bill's career began when he helped his family by working at an early age at the Kola Motel his parents owned and as he got older, working at his dad's filling station, Rawhide Service. After graduating from Campbell County High School, he worked in the oilfields. He lived and worked in Rapid City, SD for a brief time before returning to Gillette to work at the family-owned business (The Paper Clip). He eventually went to work at Belle Ayre Mine. After leaving the mine he made his way back to the oilfield until he retired.

Bill proudly served in the Navy from 1968 to 1970.

In his junior and high school days he played football and basketball. Beyond his work and military service, Bill had a wide range of hobbies and interests that brought him joy. He especially loved golf and after retiring spent many days on the golf courses in Wyoming and other states.

Bill is survived by his brother, Michael (Dora) Samuels of Gillette; nephew, Aaron (Rachel) Samuels; and great-nephews and a great niece (of Ohio).

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and June; grandparents, Jesse and Alice (Wright) Spielman of Gillette; William and Mary (Edwards) Samuels of Rocksprings, WY; Great grandparents, William and Ollie Mae (Marquiss) Wright and H. A. (Harv) and Elizabeth (Musselman) Spielman of Gillette; as well as numerous aunts and uncle and cousins.

Bill lived most of his 78 years in Gillette. He could talk about the "old Gillette." His memory was sharp, and he remembered the old days, friends and what happened when. Our family get togethers always involved the saying "Mike, remember when..."

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Jan. 04, 2023 at Gillette Memorial Chapel.  Visitation will begin at 11 am, with formal services starting at 12 pm. A graveside service of Military Honors will immediately follow at Mount Pisgah Cemetery of Gillette.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Legion Post #42, Sons of the American Legion or a place of you own choice.  Condolences for Bill's passing may be expressed on this tribute page.