Wanamaker, William R. "Bill" age 88. Born in Milaca, MN. Formerly of Anoka, passed away on 1-8-15. Preceded in death by parents, Frank & Helen; wife, Geraldine (1977), sister, Audrey (age 2) and brother, Frank (2013). Survived by his loving children , Susan (Jackson), Bart (Marge), Bill (Linda), Kathy (Mike), Janet (Nick) & Steve (Robin), all of the Twin Cities; grandchildren , Joshua (Jessica), Justin (Richelle), Jennifer, Jerilyn, Zeke, Sarah (Noah), Nathan & Heather; 9 great-grandchildren; brother, John (Phyllis); many nieces, nephews, Dianne & extended family. Graduate of Anoka High School – 1944, where he played on two district Anoka basketball championship teams. Served in the US Navy from August 1944 until June 1945 as a Gunners Mate. He always said they won the war when he got in! He graduated from Hamline University in 1950 & also played basketball for the Hamline Pipers and championship team (1949) of the NAIA college tournament. Married Geraldine Cunningham on August 16, 1952 at United Methodist Church in Anoka. He began his teaching (history) and coaching career in 1950 as head track coach and assistant basketball coach at Anoka Senior High. In 1960 he became head basketball coach until retiring in 1979. In 1973 his boys' basketball team won the State Championship. In 1992 he was inducted into the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and in 2011 was inducted into the Anoka High Hall of Fame. He was a teacher, coach and mentor to many!He was a great father and one of a kind. He left his family a huge legacy and will be missed, but he will live on with our wonderful memories. He has finally made his way to that mansion in the sky to join his wife, Jerry. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, February 5th at 6 PM with visitation starting at 4 PM at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Ave., Anoka. 763-421-0220