Billie Reid Koleman

Did you ever see Billie Koleman without a smile and a kind word? As her family, we rarely did ourselves. Billie was born in Lakewood, Ohio on May 30, 1928 and went to Ohio University where she met her life partner, Ike. But before she was to marry and have a son and three daughters, she became a stewardess for United Airlines and traveled the world.  Billie was a quick wit and always the life of the party, but also had great compassion; whenever she saw someone in need, she was there to pick them up. People were drawn to her for her sweet nature, kindness and beauty. She was homecoming queen in college and modeled as well but she was not defined by her looks. She had a bright spark, an optimism and joy that shone from within and made all those around her happy.  She lived with her family in Miami Florida for 14 years, then moved with them to St Charles Illinois where she went on to devote her life to teaching children. In 1976 she moved to Park City, Utah and opened Kids Kampus school where she worked until her retirement in 1996. 

Billie was somewhat of a celebrity in Park City, as the kindergarten teacher who ushered  hundreds of children on to the next step in their lives. She was so beloved that in 1996 Summit County dubbed September 26, "Miss Billie Day." And to this day, she has students search her out to express their love and appreciation for all that she gave them. We honor you, lovely Billie, and cherish that we were a part of your very rich life. 

Billie leaves behind her husband Ivan, of 62 years; her children Kevin Koleman, Cherie Thomas, Cindy Meneses, Carol Koleman; 11 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Her eldest granddaughter, Kellie Michaelis ran the Salt Lake half marathon in her honor on the day she passed away. We would like to make a tradition of running this marathon every year as remembrance of her great spirit. Please join us next year and let's run together. 'Atta boy, Billie!

There will be a celebration of her life held at her home in Park City on Monday, April 22 4-9pm. 3941 North Village Round, Park West Village in Park City.

In lieu of flowers to join the celebration please bring a perennial plant for her garden.