William Rose

His father ran a successful machine shop, while his mother raised him and his two sisters in a vibrant, friend-filled community. He lovingly pestered his older sisters, Sally and Betty. Bill spent his childhood exploring the desert, riding horses, swimming in the neighborhood pool, and working at a local television station. New Mexico planted the seeds of a lifelong fascination with geology.

After high school, Bill attended Dartmouth College, where he received bachelor’s and Ph.D. degrees. There he met two people who would change his life: geology professor Dick Stoiber, and friend Bill Rust. Stoiber, one of the pioneers of volcano research, recognized potential in the unpolished young man whose father had just died and offered him an opportunity to study volcanoes in Guatemala–a pivotal experience that would shape Bill’s life. Bill Rust became a close friend and co-conspirator in his college adventures. He introduced Bill to his sister, Nanno, who would become the love of Bill’s life. 

Bill and Nanno married in 1967. They settled in Houghton, home of Bill’s employer Michigan Tech, in 1970. They raised two sons, Chris and Jason, and built a wide and devoted circle of friends. Bill’s work as a volcanologist took him across the globe–and occasionally, Nanno and the boys were able to come along on the adventures. Nanno appreciated his charm, sense of humor, and free spirit; Chris and Jason adored and admired their father.

Following that first trip to Guatemala, Bill developed a deep passion for understanding volcanic eruptions. His adventures throughout Central America, along with his love of its people and landscapes, led him to speak Spanish and immerse himself in local cultures. He devoted himself to forecasting volcanic eruptions to help protect people living near volcanoes.

Bill served for 41 years as a professor of geology and volcanology at Michigan Tech, working alongside scientists from around the world. He mentored countless graduate students, many of whom became close friends and respected colleagues. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and in his role advancing global volcano research. The volcanology program he helped build at Michigan Tech has become one of the world’s leading departments, drawing students from around the globe and producing leaders in the field.

In retirement, Bill remained active and engaged. He developed geoheritage materials, led tours of Isle Royale and the Keweenaw Peninsula, and supported teachers, artists, kayakers, hikers, bicyclists, and tourists in learning about the region’s rich geological and cultural history. He treasured time with his children and grandchildren, especially during family vacations in Eagle Harbor. Always curious, he took the road less traveled–and delighted in whatever he discovered along the way.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Nanno; his son, Chris and wife Carey; and his son, Jason and wife Kathleen. He was proud of and loved his five grandchildren, Mady, Jessie, Peyton, Ethan, and Griffin.

The family is gathering in Eagle Harbor to grieve, remember Bill, and support one another.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held in coordination with Michigan Tech. Details will follow.

In lieu of flowers or food, please consider honoring Bill’s memory with a donation to one of the causes he cared about: Bill Rose Geoscience Student Travel Fund, Keweenaw Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy, and PBS.

The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. Please go to http://www.oneilldennsifh.com to leave online condolences.