William J. “Bill” Egan

William J. “Bill” Egan

February 16, 1931 ~ March 30, 2024

  William “Bill” Joseph Egan passed away in the presence of his loving family on Saturday, March 30th and is now reunited with the love of his life, Kathy.  Bill was born to Dr. William and Mildred Egan on February 16, 1931 in Omaha, Nebraska.  He is survived by his siblings, Dolores Damitio (Jerry), Marilyn Kappenman (Dennis), and Larry (Joni), his loving and devoted children Mike (Pat), Karen Keller (Paul), Mary Sackett (Jim), and Barbara Crawford (Dan).  Bill’s legacy includes his six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren whom he loved and adored.

A lifelong resident of Omaha, when he wasn’t spending winters in Phoenix, Arizona in retirement, Bill was a proud attendee and graduate of both Creighton Prep and Creighton University.  While attending Creighton University, Bill’s family went on vacation to Ottertail Lake, near Fergus Falls, MN. That is where he met his future wife and lifelong love, companion, and partner, Kathy.  Their long distance relationship continued until after Bill’s graduation, when he proposed marriage.  The Korean Conflict got in the way of an immediate wedding as Bill had to ship out as a proud member of the U.S. Army.  Bill served his country in Korea until shortly before his discharge.  He was called home to be with his ailing mother and it was then he was able to marry Kathy on July 7, 1954. The marriage that produced four children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren continued until Kathy’s passing in 2022.  

After the Army, Bill embarked on a long and very successful career with Mutual of Omaha.  He climbed the company ranks steadily, holding several key positions until he was able to retire after thirty years as a full Vice President.  Bill was proud of all his accomplishments and deservedly so, until his retirement in 1986.

The next 30-plus years after retirement led to summers in Omaha and winters in Phoenix, Arizona.  Bill loved his time in the desert and soaked up all the sun and warmth.  He and Kathy jumped into the community, making dear friends and pursuing all manner of hobbies.  The last several years Bill and Kathy had the best of both worlds by being able to spend summers with daughters Mary and Karen in Omaha, and winters with Mike and Barbara in Arizona.

Both Bill and Kathy had a deep and abiding faith.  It was a strong influence in their lives and those of their children. The Egans were parishioners of Christ the King Catholic Church in Omaha for over sixty years.  They were very proud of their Catholic community and worked their whole lives in service and devotion.

A private service will be held.  In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed by the family.