William Paul Conant, Jr., 89, asleep in Jesus, on Saturday, September 22, 2012.

Born January 1, 1923 in Blue Island, Illinois, to the late William Paul Conant, Sr. and Mildred Snell Conant, the first of four boys.

A graduate of Purdue University with a degree in chemical engineering, Bill went to work for Monsanto in various capacities. After 37 years, Bill retired, started a 2nd career and became the first director of the St. Louis Co. Fire Academy. He served as a consultant to the state of MO concerning hazardous materials.

Bill was an accomplished bassoonist. His favorite past times were fishing, reading, talking, and asking endless questions.

Bill was a man of faith and always ready to have a theological discussion. He was a long time member of Webster Gardens Lutheran Church.

Survivors include his wife, Lois Hartwig Conant; his children, David, Susan, Paul, and Allison; and grandchildren, Valerie, Colin, Kathleen, Christopher, Bridget, Leah, and Josephine. Bill’s commitment to his family extended to include his three sister-in-laws and multiple nieces, nephews, and their children all of whom in stayed in touch through a daily email “Weather Report”.

Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

The memorial service will be at Webster Gardens Lutheran Church in Webster Groves, MO on October 27th at 10 AM with time to visit with the family following the service. Contributions can be made to Webster Gardens Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.