Dr. William F. Coulson of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 13, 2018. Mr. Coulson was born October 26, 1926, in Belmond, IA, to Ruth and Robert Coulson. The oldest of four children, Bill was followed by 3 sisters. Upon graduation from Belmond High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After receiving an honorable discharge, he enrolled in Iowa State University and became the first in his family to graduate from college. Mr. Coulson later went on to earn his PhD in Education from the University of Iowa at Ames. Dr. Coulson began his teaching career in Lehigh, IA, moved on through various public school teaching positions and eventually settled at the University of WI-Superior, where he taught teachers' education for 17 years. Bill was awarded two National Science Foundation Institute Fellowships to continue his education. He was active in the Phi Kappa Phi and Phi Delta Kappa organizations, serving in numerous offices and roles. Bill married Lorraine DeWall on Dec. 27, 1953, and had just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. They raised four children together. A favorite activity was travel and Bill and Lorraine were fortunate to travel throughout his lifetime. They lived in Jakarta, Indonesia and Sao Paulo, Brazil as well as a few different U.S. cities. Upon retiring a second time, the Coulson's made Eau Claire their home. Over the years, camping, bowling, curling and most recently dartball and cards, were hobbies he enjoyed with friends. Having lived in Edmonton, Alberta, for a time, Bill became involved in curling and lead his own team when they moved to Superior. In each place that they called home, Bill made church a priority and was active in church events and leadership. Bill is survived by his wife, Lorraine; sons, Bruce (Mimi) of Houston, TX, Brian (Linda) of Farmington, MN; Marcia Vining (David) of Ignacio, CO; 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Boyd, and two sisters. Bill's wife, Lorraine, and his family would like to express their deepest appreciation and gratitude to the Pastors Cherie and John Miskimen and members of the Chapel Heights United Methodist Church for their support and friendship over the years. They also thank the Mayo Clinic Home Health and Hospice workers and the Home Helpers staff, especially Alec Watson, for their excellent service and care. Memorials may be given to the food pantry at Chapel Heights United Methodist Church. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m on Thursday, January 18, 2018, at Chapel Heights United Methodist Church, 300 E. Hamilton Ave, Eau Claire, with Pastor Cheryl A. Miskimen officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Military honors conducted by American Legion Post 53. Burial will take place at a later date in Belmond Cemetery, Belmond, IA. Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting his family.

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