William E. "Bill" Driscoll Jr. passed away peacefully at St. Luke's Regional Hospital in Boise, Idaho on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009 with his loving family at his side. Bill was born Jan. 29, 1932 to William E. and Elcena Greene Driscoll in Portland, Oregon. He was the fifth child and only surviving son. His four loving sisters, Sister Mary Driscoll, Suzanne Jensen, Anne Lyon and Carolyn Neely, spoiled him rotten. The family moved to Medford, Oregon in 1945. In July 1951 Bill joined the Army and was sent to Korea. He was honorably discharged on July 24, 1953. In August 1953 Bill married his high school sweetheart Joanne Gosch. From this union were born Mary (Mark) Donovan, Michael (Terri) Driscoll, Kerry Driscoll, Molly Shaffer, Meg and Amy Driscoll. Bill is survived by his 12 grandchildren Meredith Donovan, Cody and Sara Nord, Lauren and Nick Shaffer, Maddie and Samantha Story, Sean and Kyle Driscoll, Mackenzie, Mitchell and Mason Crowell, 1 great grandchild Ellie Marie Driscoll and 22 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Suzanne, Anne and baby brother Patrick. After his return to Medford and working in the mortuary business for a few years Bill began his long and varied career in all aspects of the construction business. The last 13 years were focused on the log home industry. This was very dear to him. He traveled all over the U.S. and made many friends. It is said, "He was a legend in the field!" In 1977 while working in Boise, Bill met the love of his life Marie. He became a devoted father to her 2 sons Jim (Jeni) and Tony Crowell. Bill and Marie began their adventures together across the U.S. They moved back to Boise in 1992. His achievements in Meridian Kiwanis were numerous, from President to "Kiwanian of the Year" and "Hixson Award". But most special to Bill was his work with the "K kids". Bill became President of the Meridian Chamber of Commerce in 2000. We may never know the lives he touched in so many ways. But we do know how much he is loved and will be missed. The family would like to express their utmost appreciation for the many kindnesses shown to Bill, especially by St. Luke's #3 Tele Department. A vigil will be held on Thursday, Feb 4th 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at Summers Funeral Chapel (1205 W. Bannock St., Boise). A mass will be held on Friday, Feb. 5th 2009 at 10 a.m. at St. John's Cathedral (775 N. 8th St., Boise) presided by Father Don Riffle. Burial will follow at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Idaho Humane Society or your favorite charity.

Published in Idaho Statesman from January 5 to January 10, 2010