William Gene Putren, 81

On Friday, Oct. 23, 2020, William Gene Putren passed away peacefully at the age of 81 at his home in Coeur d’Alene, surrounded by his wife and family.

Bill was born on June 24, 1939, in Bellflower, Calif., to William and Agnes (Negley) Putren. He graduated from Bellflower High School, Class of 1958, and became a journeyman painter for five years.

He later married his sweetheart, Mary Claire Range, on Dec. 8, 1962, and was soon drafted into the United States Army. He served our country for five years as an E4, private track vehicle mechanic.

Upon honorable discharge, Bill and Mary settled in Lakewood, Calif., where they raised a daughter and two sons. He worked for Los Angeles Harbor Community College for 30 years as the paint supervisor. Bill and Mary celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary last December, and since his retirement, they have lived in Clinton, Mo., Meridian, Idaho, and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his sisters, Beverly Alexander and Patricia Shoemaker. He is survived by his wife, Mary (Range); daughter, Kathy, and her husband, Chuck Williamson; son, William (“Bill”) and his wife, Adrianne; son, Todd and his wife, Kim; and nine grandchildren: Jake, Karsen, Emma, Isaac, Owen, Ily, Ben, Eli and Sam.

Bill enjoyed woodworking, hunting, painting and working on old classic cars. He was an avid Los Angeles Angels baseball fan and rarely missed a game. He coached his sons’ baseball teams and the highlight of being a grandpa was cheering for his grandkids at their various pursuits and sporting events.

Bill was an amazing husband, father, grandpa and friend to many. He will be missed

We look forward to seeing him again in heaven. Grandma has some “butterfly kisses” for him.

Due to these uncertain times, a memorial and celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Please visit his online memorial at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com