William Van Rice Sr.

William Van Rice Sr., 60, a lifelong resident of Troy, died Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2009 at his home in Troy from natural causes.

He was born Feb. 29, 1948 in Libby to William and Josephine Smith Rice. He grew up and attended school in Troy, graduating with the class of 1966. On Sept. 1, 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines. He served one tour of duty in Vietnam where he was awarded a Purple Heart with two stars. He was honorably discharged on Feb. 27, 1970.

Mr. Rice married Louise Rogers on May 13, 1967. Right after his discharge, the couple returned to Troy where he worked as a logger. He later worked for Asarco and City Service. Mr. Rice enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with his family.

His parents and a sister, Dela Marie Shaver, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Louise Rice of Troy; children, Christine Packwood and husband Ken of Lewiston, Idaho; Dusti Thompson and husband Tim of Libby; William V. Rice Jr. and wife Myriam of Fort Hood, Texas; six grandchildren, Britnee, Anita, Taylor, Will, Timmy, and Bryan; two great-grandchildren, Lexi and Bryson; two sisters, Sheri Paasch and husband Larry of Troy; and Bonnie Dennison of Troy.

Services will be Monday, Jan. 19, 2009 at 2 p.m. at the Church of God in Troy. Memorials may be given to a scholarship fund in Mr. Rice’s name at the Troy Lincoln County Credit Union.

Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby handled local arrangements.