Rotarian of the Week 06-29-11

Our Rotarian of the Week grew up in Douglas, Wyoming.  He graduated from Douglas High School, home of the Bearcats, with 60 in his graduating class.  His first job was working on a farm swathing and binding oats for $100 / month.  After high school, he went to New Mexico State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and went onto to earn his MBA from the University of Wyoming.  He worked for the state of Wyoming for over 30 years including service as the Director of the Department of Agriculture and the Deputy Director twice.  He also served as the head of State Parks and the State Office of Tourism.  Today, Bill Gentle is retired from the state, but has a thriving horseshoeing business, which has enjoyed for the last nine years.  Bill and Sue have been married 38 years and have two grown kids.  Bill and Sue met in Worland, Wyoming, when Bill was working as a meat inspector and Sue was working as a disc jockey.  In his free time, Bill enjoys working with horses and reading. In earlier times, he enjoyed skiing, playing polo and the rodeo.  His favorite meal is the green chili stew at the Albany.  Other than family his proudest accomplishment was serving as the Director for the Department of Ag under Governor Sullivan.  Originally, he enjoyed Rotary for the opportunity to get to know people, but over time has really appreciated the programs and the opportunity to serve.  His most memorable Rotary experience has been reading to students at Hobbs Elementary for the past seven years.  Bill has been a member of Rotary since 1994 when he was sponsored by Don Ralston.  Over the years, Bill has chaired numerous committees, including the Rural Appreciation Committee, which he particularly enjoyed honoring local agriculture families.  He has also served on our Board of Directors, Vice-President, and serve as our Club President for 2011-12.  In appreciation of his service to our Club, the Sergeant at Arms presented him with a gift certificate and a special lapel pin.