William E. Killian, III, 53, of Cherokee passed away at home on June 21, 2012 following an extended illness. He was a member of the Birdtown Community and formerly of Canton, Fairview, and Louisville, KY. He was first and foremost a family man who loved his wife and family very much and was so proud of each of his children and grandchildren. He also loved animals and was a supporter of PETA. As a representative of PETA, he had spoken at meetings in Washington concerning the treatment of the captive bears being held on the reservation and was an avid supporter of change for the bears.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Sylvia Thomas, his father, William E. Killian Jr; brother Michael Killian and one grandchild.
He is survived by his loving wife of thirty-four years, Kimberly Killian; children, Angela Arsana of Cherokee, William Eddie Killian IV of Graham Co., and Sean Johnson of Louisville, KY; brother, James Killian; sisters, Deborah Christoffer and Sharon Anderson and two granddaughters.
Bill will be remembered for his website, EasternBand.com, his wit and sense of humor, his love of computers, and his remarkable courage when it came to being the champion of many causes that no one else would dare to challenge. He will also be remembered for his ability to seek out the facts and inform the public. He was a friend to all who knew him and will be sadly missed by his family and many, many friends.
In keeping with Bill’s wishes, the family held a private graveside service at the Crowe Cemetery on June 25, 2012 at 2pm attended by family and close personal friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in his memory be made to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
Long House Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements. An on-line memorial is available at www.longhousefuneralhome.com.