William Larkin IV (1941 – 2013). Bill was born in Tacoma, Washington and was the only child of Mildred and William Larkin (III). After graduating from Puyallup High School, he attended Washington State University where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering. Bill truly enjoyed his work. Most of his career was spent with the City of Tacoma where he eventually retired as Assistant Director of Public Works after 30 years of service. He then accepted the position of Public Works Director for the newly formed City of Lakewood and retired again after 8 years. Over the next few years, he acted as interim Public Works Director for the cities of Milton and Fircrest.
Outside of work, Bill enjoyed many hobbies and interests. He loved vacationing in the sun and looked forward to his monthly poker games with longtime friends. He was active in the community, serving as Chair of the Lakewood Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee, and as a Rotary member was a Paul Harris Fellow. Bill believed strongly in education and being charitable, giving generously to many causes and organizations.
Bill had an exceptionally positive attitude and put up a strong fight, but on Wednesday, July 17, he passed away from complications of leukemia. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and colleague. He will be missed greatly by his wife Martha, sons Bill (Dawn), James (Katherine), and David (Julie), daughters Mary and Melissa (Mike), grandsons Billy, Douglas, Tim, Marquise, and Oliver, granddaughter Kaitlynn, and his beloved dog, Chico.
A memorial service will be held on July 30, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. in the Life Center Chapel (1717 S. Union Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98405). A reception will follow. If you would like to make a donation in Bill’s honor, please consider the Larkin Endowment for Life Christian Academy or The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Saif Kasubhai and St. Clare Specialty Center staff.