W.R. "Bill" Jelinek

Bill grew up in Knox County, Nebraska and would graduate from Wakefield, Nebraska High School in 1943. While in the Army, Bill was stationed at Buckley Field in Denver and met Lorraine Schroeder, his future bride.

They were married in River Falls, WI, Lorraine’s hometown, on November 15, 1946. Shortly thereafter, Bill began his 38 year career with U.P.R.R. From Kansas, they moved to Colorado on September 1, 1959. On July 1, 1960 they moved into their new home and would reside there their entire lives.

Bill was a key figure in establishing and a charter member of The La Salle Eagles Club-Aerie #3519. He enjoyed baseball, bowling, golf, playing cribbage, camping, and many retirement years (17) as a “Winter Texan”. He enjoyed his pets and cherished his time with his grandchildren.

Bill is survived by sons, Gary L. (Linda), Danny D. (Cheryl), and Jay W.; grandchildren, Jeffrey and Tony Jelinek both of Denver, David Jelinek of Greeley, Joseph Jelinek of Fort Collins and Jennifer Jelinek (Ryan Winter) of Evergreen and one great-granddaughter, Jenna of Denver. Also surviving is a sister, Trudy Jensen of Arizona, and a sister-in-law, Virginia (Castro) Jelinek of Panama and many loving nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Lorraine and two brothers, Robert and Louis.