William Geffen

William Geffen, beloved husband and father, left this world on November 24th, 2009. He died at home, as he wished, in Colorado Springs. He was born in Konigsberg, Germany, and came to the U.S. in 1941. As an immigrant, he overcame many obstacles to finish high school in New York City, and then enlisted in the Armed Forces. He devoted his life to this country and his family. He fought in World War II, and because of his natural skill in languages, was frequently stationed overseas. Education was always a priority for him, however, and he took advantage of the G.I. bill to obtain an undergraduate degree at University of California, Berkeley, and a graduate degree at Stanford University. While in Berlin, Germany, he met the love of his life, Helene Bielak. They married in Germany, started their family, and soon returned to the U.S. Stationed in Washington DC, he worked for military intelligence in the Pentagon for several years. In 1960, he and his family, now four daughters strong, moved to Colorado Springs, CO, where he had an appointment as a professor in military history and political science at the Air Force Academy. During this time, he also earned his Doctorate in Political Science from the University of Denver. His devotion to his country was so strong, he later volunteered to serve in Viet Nam and was there for over a year as a liaison between the Asian countries and the U.S. Upon his return, he was promoted to Permanent Professor at the Air Force Academy, leading the Foreign Language Department. He attended the Defense Foreign Language Institute at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, where he and Helene had two wonderful years in his beloved California. During his time of service with the military, he earned many honors, including the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the WWII Victory Medal and the Purple Heart. He retired from active duty in the military in 1982 and began an active civilian life serving his community through teaching and public service. Education, democracy and support for the principles upon which this country was founded were lifetime causes that he passed onto his family. His love of life and learning influenced everyone he met in a positive way; he loved people, he loved this country and his dedication left a legacy for us all. William is survived by his wife, Helene Geffen, and his four daughters, Charlette Geffen (Robert Degan); Patricia Spencer (Kerr); Diane Pamel (Stan) and Joanne Cooper (John). He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, Michael and Charles Degan; Elena and Corinne Spencer; Luke, Adam, Philip, Jonathan and Aaron Pamel; Laura, Peter, Danny and Jesse Cooper. He was deeply loved by his family and his friends, and will be sorely missed. Arrangements under the direction of Swan-Law Funeral Directors, Colorado Springs, CO.