He was born July 7, 1931, in Great Falls, Montana to William Patton Leitgeb and Pearl Estella Jackson Leitgeb. He grew up in Great Falls and graduated from Great Falls High School in 1948.

Growing up in Great Falls, Montana, Bill was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed horses, hunting and fishing. He was particularly good with horses. As a result, he landed a summer job breaking horses on the actor, Gary Cooper's ranch.

Bill joined the Navy shortly after graduating from high school. While in the Navy, he had a distinguished and decorated career in the submarine service. During this time in the Navy, he lived in several foreign countries and territories. It was in Hawaii where he met his future wife, Priscilla Koohelelani and they were married April 8, 1953. It was also in the Navy where he earned his nickname, "Wild Bill".

After 24 years in the Navy, Bill retired a Master Chief and moved to his home state of Montana. It was here that Bill purchased and successfully operated the Madison River Lodge. Located 38 miles north of Yellowstone, the lodge catered to fishermen, hunters, and tourists. Bill operated the lodge with his family for 15 years before selling to retire.

He was a devoted family man, who loved his wife, children and grandchildren very much.

He was an avid hunter, fly fisherman, and he enjoyed golfing.

He is survived by his wife, Priscilla K. Leitgeb of Mesquite and Island Park; 2 sons, Richard Allan Leitgeb of Temecula, California, and Robert John Leitgeb of Hanford, California; 6 grandchildren; and a brother, Richard Leitgeb of Helena, Montana.

A Gathering of friends and family will be from 4-5:00 p.m. Friday, August 17, 2007, at Williams' cabin, 3740 Snake River Rd. in Island Park, Idaho.

Arrangements are under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com.