William B. (Bill) Newnam, 92, died on Oct. 6, 2009. He was the son of Sidney and Lenore Newnam and was born on Aug. 5, 1917, in Columbus Junction, Iowa. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in business administration.

Mr. Newnam was a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II, flying B17s and B29s and training pilots to fly throughout the war. He moved to New York after the war and met his wife, Joy. They were married for 58 loving years and had four children, Dirk, Julie, Kris and Tovi.

Mr. Newnam was a teacher at heart and inspired all he knew to strive for the best of their abilities. He inspired his children with a strong work ethic that has translated into each of their lives.

Mr. Newnam worked with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company as an agent, CLU, for 40 years. He also taught CLU classes at Seattle University for 12 years. He had multiple achievement awards for the service to others.

Mr. Newnam was an avid golfer, hiker and climber, summitting Mt. Rainier one of three climbs. He also led many trips with the Mountaineers and taught classes on the various techniques of climbing. He walked Mercer Island daily until the year of his death.

Mr. Newnam is survived by his wife, Joy, and children. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bud.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 6001 Island Crest Way, Mercer Island. A potluck will follow at the church.