Bill Tostanoski Obituary

Bill J. Tostanoski died Tuesday, September 25, 2007 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Born July 23, 1923 in International Falls, Minnesota, Bill was the son of William and Alexandria Tostanoski. He is survived by his wife Helen; daughter Irene and her family Michael, Nick, Sadie and Luke; son Michael and his family Vicki, Teddi and Andi; son Will and his family Mary, Torin, Sean and Bohdan; sister Mary Berg and many nieces and nephews. Bill proudly served his country during WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He served in the US Marine Corp. from 1942-1945 and the USMC Reserves from 1948-1950. He worked for Northwest Airlines while in the reserves. He returned to active duty in 1950 in the USAF and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant in 1971. After his Air Force retirement Bill continued to work in Southeast Asia and Iran, marketing oil analysis products and processes. Throughout his travels he made many life-long friends and will always be remembered for his wit and quick smile; his love of music; his remarkable ability to play harmonica, violin, mandolin and piano; his willingness to lend a hand to someone less fortunate; and his unfailing Christian faith. Bill's family sends thanks to the many caregivers and volunteers at the Pike's Peak Hospice for their compassionate and loving care during his illness. Thanks also to the many friends and the church family by his side. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill's memory can be made to the Pike's Peak Hospice, 825 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Suite 600, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 or St. Raphael Episcopal Church, 802 Leta Drive, Security, CO 80911. A funeral mass will be said Saturday, September 29, 2007, 2:00 pm at St. Raphael Episcopal Church to celebrate Bill's life.