Thomas William Prill

LAUREL - Thomas William Prill, 79, of Laurel, passed away Aug. 23, 2017. He was born March 14, 1938 in Jamestown, North Dakota, to George and Viola Prill. He served in the United States Air Force in the Air Police, Canine unit, stationed in Étain, France and Aviano, Italy, and was honorably discharged in 1960. He earned a degree in secondary education from Eastern Montana College. On July 25, 1964, he married his "girlfriend," Julie Ann Klein, in Billings. He lived and worked in Laurel for most of his life as a teacher, carpenter/contractor and retired from the Cenex Refinery in 1997 after 19 years. Tom had many gifts, especially in the area of construction and repair. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus Fr. Shevlin Council No. 6455 and rose to the rank of Grand Knight and was Fourth Degree member.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, George and Dr. Richard Prill, Sr. He is survived by his wife, Julie Ann; daughter Carolyn (Steven Bennett); son Tom (Katie); son Anthony (Kim); his brother, Neilon (Cheryl); and sisters Dorothy Ford and Alyce Hall (Bob). Also missing their Papa are eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was a highly respected citizen and friend. He was a loving husband and a kindly, affectionate father and grandfather. His loss is deeply mourned by his family and is felt by a large circle of friends.

A rosary service in his name is to be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave., Billings, and a memorial service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 717 18th St. W., Billings, with interment to follow in the Yellowstone National Cemetery, Laurel, with military honors.

Tom's family wishes to thank St. Vincent Hospital and ICU, all the doctors, ICU staff and compassionate nurses for his excellent care. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church or a charity of your choice.