Bill L. Harlan

Bill L. Harlan was born February 21, 1937 in Amarillo, Texas and passed away after a brief illness on September 10, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Phyllis, their son Michael, his wife Geri and their daughter Makenzie.

Bill was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity at the University of Oklahoma where he graduated with a degree in geology in 1959. Bill didn’t use his geological training but instead embarked upon a career in sales. Over 50 years ago he founded and, until the last month of his life, successfully operated First Forms Co. His dedication to providing outstanding service to his customers is evidenced by the fact that many of his customers have purchased business forms from him during the entire 50-year span.

Bill was not merely a participant but was an active leader in numerous organizations, such as St. George’s Episcopal Church, various homeowners’ associations and most particularly The American Contract Bridge League.

His three major hobbies were duplicate bridge, travel and art appreciation. Bill and Phyllis traveled to Europe and throughout North America to visit the major art museums of the world. A highlight was a three week trip to St. Petersburg, Russia, to attend an intimate and behind the scenes art appreciation school at the Hermitage Museum. He also enjoyed being a “beach bum” on their twice yearly trips to the island of St. Maarten for the past 30 years. Bill passionately loved the game of bridge and played many times a week here in Oklahoma City. He and Phyllis traveled throughout North America to attend duplicate bridge tournaments. Bill was a Sapphire Life Master, an excellent player and a fun partner. He is also known throughout the local bridge community as the poet who composed funny rhymes to honor players or events in the bridge world.

Bill will be missed by his family, his extended family of bridge friends and his treasured customers. He will be remembered as a good man, a good friend and a fun guy with a quick wit and a great sense of humor.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at Hahn Cook Street & Draper. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the ACBL Charity Foundation, 6575 Windchase Blvd., Horn Lake, MS 38637-1523.

Arrangements under the direction of Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Directors, Oklahoma City, OK.