William Costello Mullin, 90
Beloved father, spirited intellectual, devout Catholic, and charming gentleman, William “Bill” Costello Mullin, died in Spokane, Wash., on Christmas Day, 2016. He was 90 years old.
Bill was born in San Francisco to Irish immigrants on Nov. 1, 1926. At a young age, he fell in love with the city by the bay, taking full advantage of its cultural and educational opportunities. He became an avid film and museum buff. A Jesuit priest’s stimulating history lessons encouraged Bill to study history as a lifetime endeavor. He was a voracious reader who enjoyed discussing not only history but also economics, politics, and Russian literature. After graduating from college and earning his CPA, Bill was hired by the state of California as an accountant.
It was while he was working in the San Francisco business district that he met his wife, Nina Untevsky. They had five children: Nina, Bill, Elehna, Velja, and Ava.
Seeking adventure and career growth, Bill and his family moved to Juneau, Alaska, in 1965. He was the state director of finance until 1983. Career highlights include initiating Alaska’s income tax and payroll systems.
Following the death of his wife, Bill married Elfrieda Delora Withers. She and her two children, Nowlin and Treacy, became cherished family members.
Upon retirement, Bill and Elfrieda moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, to be closer to family. Bill thrived with renovating his craftsman home, enjoying his grandchildren, reading, writing, and collecting artwork. He also became an even more devoted Catholic, giving much of his time to the Knights of Columbus.
In 2006, Bill and Elfrieda moved to Spokane, where they enjoyed the Spokane Symphony, family get-togethers, and art events. Elfrieda died in 2012, leaving Bill bereft. Yet, his last years were filled with heartfelt compassion, selfless giving, and celebration.
He was preceded in death by his wives, Nina and Elfrieda; his son, Bill; his grandson, Eric; and his son-in-law, Nelson. He is survived by his children, Nina, Elehna, Nowlin (Lisa), Velja (Dan), Treacy, and Ava (Glenn); his daughter-in-law, Cathy; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Bill’s family wishes to thank all of those who helped with his care, especially Suzanne Abbott, Carole Hunter, Father Kevin A. Codd and Deacon Brian Ernst from Sacred Heart Parish, the staff at Emilie Court, and Hospice of Spokane. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eric M. Johnson Community Fund at the Inland Northwest Community Foundation (www.inwcf.org).
A celebration of life is planned for April 29, 2017, at Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel in Spokane. All friends of the family are invited.
Community Cremation and Funeral, 4407 N Division, Suite 103, in Spokane is in charge of services.