Bill R. Lundgren

Bill (Cool Breeze - Lucky Dog) Lundgren has gone to make that big pick in the sky. He died peacefully surrounded by loved ones in his home on Feb. 15, 2023. 

A celebration of life visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 26, from 1-4 p.m. at the Clear Lake VFW, 219 Main Ave. Clear Lake.

Memorials may be directed to Kim Lundgren, PO Box 308, Ventura, IA. 50482.

Bill was born in Mason City on Nov. 12, 1952 to Carl “Dick” and Dorothy (Jass) Lundgren. He graduated from Ventura High School in 1970 where he was a star football player. Out of high school Bill started working construction and one of his earliest jobs was Interstate 35. One fateful day the operator that was supposed to run the road grader called in sick. The boss asked Bill if he wanted to run it and Bill said, “If I’m no good, you’re not going to fire me, are ya?” He had a knack for operating heavy machinery.  It wasn’t long until he worked his way up to cranes, where he found his passion and what he was best at. His work took him to various states, the furthest of which being California. In 1973 he joined Local 234 out of Des Moines and died a 50-year member.

On June 12, 1993, he married the love of his life, Kim Howard. A year to the day later his pride and joy, Kyle, was born. When he wasn’t on the road, he helped out at the Town Pump with Wayne, Mary, and Kim, where many great memories were made. In 2001, Bill and Kim purchased Lucy’s in Ventura, and Bill was adamant they name it “Kim’s”. They had the opportunity thanks to Bill incessantly asking Lucy for first dibs. His love for the place started in school where he would have a soda, chips, or candy bar while waiting for his parents to come pick him up.

In 2010, Bill took early retirement after 33 years, but you wouldn’t know it because he was always telling friends and family about the various structures he erected. In his earlier years Bill loved golfing, playing cards and dancing. He had a hilarious sense of humor and enjoyed kicking back to watch westerns and the Chicago Bears with a few Buds. Please join us to celebrate his life in the Bill-approved-manner, by tipping back a few in his honor.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kim Lundgren; son, Kyle Lundgren; mother, Dorothy Lundgren; brother, Kenny (Randa) Lundgren; aunts, Janette Jass and Mildred (Raymond) Priem; mother-in-law, Mary Howard; brother-in-law, Ricky Howard; sisters in-law, Penny Howard and Stacy Rucker; along with several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

Bill is preceded in death by his father, Carl Lundgren; father-in-law, Wayne Howard; and beloved dog, Buddy. 

The family expresses special thanks to St. Croix Hospice who did an excellent job taking care of Bill.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.