William Galambos Obituary

William E. "Bill" Galambos departed this life on the evening of September 20, 2007. Being now absent from his physical body, he is present with the Lord, who loved, guided and protected him for 72 years. He is grieved by his wife Carol, and by his sons Tom, wife Megan and grandchildren Mark and Kate, and by his son Jim, wife Karen and grandchildren Jana and Sam. He is survived by his brothers Theodore and Charles and his sister Gerda Klingbeil. Bill was born to Rev. Paul and Magdalena Galambos in Gyorkony, Hungary on May 26, 1935, the youngest of four children. During World War II, the family fled Hungary, going to southern Germany and living there from 1944-48 as refugees. Providentially they were allowed to immigrate to the United States, arriving in Akron, Ohio and then settling in North Dakota. Bill worked his way through the University of North Dakota, and in 1958 graduated with an Engineering Degree in Geology and then furthered his studies with a teaching certificate. This became his lifelong passion: working with students. He taught mathematics to junior and senior high school students for 2 years in North Dakota and for 36 years in District 11. Equally important to him was the opportunity to be part of the coaching staffs at East Junior High and Wasson High School where he had a positive influence on many young people through softball, basketball, wrestling, track, and cross country teams. Bill served the cause of the Gospel through the giving of both his resources and his personal involvement. He served briefly as associate staff for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in North Dakota. For over 15 years during summer vacations, he volunteered on work crews at InterVarsity's camp, and Bear Trap Ranch, his family accompanying him. He was ordained an Elder in the First Presbyterian Church and served fruitfully in a variety of teaching, mentoring, and leadership roles. Bill enjoyed and was nourished by being in the beauty of creation. He loved living in Colorado and took opportunities to ride horseback, hike and climb, fly fish, backpack, and camp in a variety of settings, typically bringing others along to enjoy it with him. A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church on Friday, October 5, 2007 at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Bear Trap Ranch, 8655 Old Stage Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.