William Ladvala, 56

William "Wild Bill" Ladvala, 56, a longtime Flathead resident, passed away April 7, 2012, at his home in Whitefish. His high school sweetheart and beloved dog were at his side.

 Bill was the only child born to George and Barbara Ladvala in Red Lodge, where he grew up. It was there he met Cindy and was devoted to her for over 37 years. A student of history and well-studied politico, Bill earned advanced degrees from the school of hard knocks and speaking your mind. He was a proponent of the road less traveled and understood the value of a little civil disobedience.

A trustworthy and dedicated man, his career choice was a demonstration of his unparalleled loyalty to others. With over 34 years working for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad as an engineer, Bill looked forward to a retirement full of friends, family and traveling. He dreamed of returning to Hawaii as often as possible.

 A rock ‘n’ roll and blues man, Bill loved fast cars, home brewing beer, golfing and skiing. He was passionate about baseball, college sports, spending his time outdoors and enjoying the company of his friends and family. He was a great friend whom you could count on to lend a hand.  Rivaled only by his love of travel and family, Bill's friends meant the world to him. He had a fun-loving spirit, great sense of humor and always sought adventure.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, George Ladvala; and son, Corey Ladvala.  

He is survived by his wife, Cindy; daughter, Kristye Coomer, her husband, Michael, and their daughter, Mikayla, of Haslet, Texas; mother, Barbara Ladvala, of Roberts; and many more family and friends who love him. As a husband, dad, brother, son and friend, Bill will be greatly missed.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 12, at Austin Funeral Home in Whitefish. There will be a celebration of his life at the VFW in Whitefish following the service.

In lieu of remembrances, the family is asking for donations to the National Brain Tumor Society or the Glacier Twins baseball organization.

 You are invited to go to www.austinfh.com to offer condolences, share memories and view William's tribute wall.