William Russel McCalla Jr.

William Russel McCalla Jr. died July 19 with his children by his side.

He was born in Laramie on May 7, 1930 to William R. McCalla Sr. and Dorothy Lynch McCalla.

McCalla attended Laramie High School, served in the Army in 1948 and 1949. He graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1953 then earned a degree from Creighton Dental School in 1957.

He married the late Lois Ethel Palm in 1955. He practiced dentistry in Laramie from 1957 until 1980 when he and Lois relocated to Saratoga where he continued his practice in nearby Hanna until 1990. Afterwards he moved to Saipan and continued seeing patients until he retired in Steamboat Springs.

His youth was spent hiking, fishing, camping and skiing in the Snowy Range. A dedicated athlete, he competed throughout his life, in high school as captain of the football team and raced for the University of Wyoming ski team. He participated in many local running races usually winning his age group. He completed Ride the Rockies and the Boulder Bolder in his 70s. Often he was able to accumulate up to 2,000 miles during a season on his bike. In the winter he seldom missed a day of skiing. He became affectionately known as "Doc Sport" to many and led an active, outdoor, fun-filled life that he inspired and encouraged everyone to strive for. He loved to include new friends and often played the role of tour guide on his forays.

He is survived by his two children, Ken and his wife Debbie of Dakota Dunes, South Dakota and their sons Cody of Denver and Taylor of Aspen, Colorado. His daughter Jody McCalla Miller and her husband Ron Miller of Loveland, Colorado. He is fondly remembered by his cousins Willis Jensen and Don Jensen along with many adoring nieces and nephews.

Bill is preceded in death by his former wife Lois and his sister Marge Castle.

There will be a celebration of Bill's life September 9 in Steamboat Springs.

Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimers.org.