William Anthony 'William A. "Bill" Laree Lareese

William Anthony "W.A.", "Bill", LaReese passed away Aug. 13, 2011 at home after a prolonged illness. Bill was born June 25, 1933, in OKC to remarkable parents, Tony and Lucille. He attended Classen H.S. and, at the end of his senior year, joined the Air Force. Upon returning from military service, he attended OU, where he received a business degree. Bill was a proud member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He joined his father in the family tailoring business, which prospered for decades. In the mid 1960's, W.A. branched out into his own business. In addition to being a commercial real estate broker, Bill was a successful venture capitalist, active in corporate financing. He was involved in founding more than a dozen publicly held companies. Bill was the founding investor in CMS Advertising which was recognized as best new company of the year on the New York Stock Exchange. William was active in domestic, independent oil development as chairman and chief executive of American Bison Petroleum Corp., founded in 1978 as well as LaReese, Texas Inc. Throughout the majority of his life, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, piloting, sailing, and polo. W.A. was a longtime member of the Broad Acres Polo Club and was so proud of his five thoroughbred polo ponies. His many loves included literature, poetry, classic movies, art, crossword puzzles, and frequent family gatherings. But his greatest love and commitment rested deep, abiding faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents and his survived by his brother, Jack LaReese; sister-in-law, Gloretta; nephew Kyle, niece, Amy; his "brother" of a cousin, James LaReese and family; Bill's former wife and friend, Doris and their three children, daughters, Toni Lynn and Cynthia Elaine and son, William Anthony II; grandchildren, Donnie Dorn, Jennifer Dorn, Heather Hill and his great grandson, Zane Hill. He will be remembered by all of whom were precious to him in addition to countless friends from all over the world. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Aug. 18 at 11 a.m. at Smith & Kernke Chapel. Tributes can be made in lieu of flowers to the City Rescue Mission, 800 W. California, OKC 73106 or St. George's Greek Orthodox Church, 2101 NW 145th St, OKC 73134.