Homer "Bill" W. Lurton

    Homer William Lurton “Bill” passed away at the age of 94 on July, 27th 2024.  He was born September 18th, 1929 and raised in Dow, IL the eldest of 7 children. Bill graduated from Jerseyville High School in Jerseyville, IL then went on to earn a batchelor's degree from Principia College in Elsah, IL followed by serving 2 years in the Marine Corps.  Bill moved to California and married Cynthia Oakes with whom he raised 4 children.  He started with Jostens in 1955 selling yearbooks up and down the coast of California.   As a standout salesman, he was elevated to the executive headquarters in 1970 in Bloomington, MN.  He went on to serve as the CEO from 1972-1993 where he earned the title “Lord of the Rings.” After his first marriage ended he married Susan Levering in 1980 and helped raise her 4 daughters.  He served on the  board of the US Chamber of Commerce from 1986-1998 and was also on the boards of Pentair, Deluxe Corporation, Munsingwear, Champion Sportswear and the YMCA. 

     Bill was an avid cyclist and  challenged himself with many long distance bike rides starting with a ride across the USA from Los Angeles to Boston and culminating at the age of 85 on a ride from Prague to Salzburg with his 3 son-in-laws.  He continued to ride 10 miles daily into his final week of life. Bill was a competitive golfer with 5 hole-in-ones to his credit.  Those that knew him appreciated his love for practical jokes and his master story telling.  He was a true family man and enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  His generosity was legendary with family, friends and many charitable organizations.

Survived by sister, Jane Dunn; brothers, Bob & Don Lurton; children, Scott Lurton (Jill), Carrie Cochran (Chuck), Nancy Erickson (Van), Jennifer Keller (Kurt); step-daughters, Barb Levering, Diana Bakken (Kevin), Debbie Tollefson (Andrew), Sarah Fraser (Luke); twenty-four grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. At Bill’s request there will  be a private family gathering to reminisce, tell stories and laugh! 

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