William (Bill) Chirnside, III, died on December 23, 2021. Born in Marblehead, Massachusetts on January 17, 1943, Bill attended Marblehead Public schools and graduated Marblehead High School in 1961. During his teen years, Bill developed an avid interest in rock collecting and riflery.
Bill graduated from the Colorado School of Mines in 1974. Bill was very proud of his School of Mines education. Shortly thereafter, he went to work for the United States Geological Survey. Everywhere he was assigned to measure the topography, Bill used his knowledge of mining to aid in finding exquisite mineral specimens. His understanding of geology and his demolitions expertise enabled him to locate particular mineral accumulations throughout the Midwest. Bill often proclaimed his collection should benefit the School of Mines Museum of Earth Science. A display of his finest specimens will be on display at the Museum into the summer, and then the specimens will be added to the permanent display of Mount Antero specimens. Of special note is the bertrandite specimen illustrated in Minerals of Colorado.
Bill married Donna Rose Hughston, the one true love of his life, in September of 2006. The couple enjoyed mineral collecting and travel for two years before Donna became ill; she died in 2008. Bill never remarried. He leaves behind a sister, Wendy Coughlin; a brother, Wayne Chirnside; nephew, Brian Coughlin; and niece, Beth Hornbeck. Cremation occurred on December 28, 2021. Bill’s remains will rest with those of his beloved wife at Waterside Cemetery in Marblehead, Massachusetts.
Services will not be held.
Donations to honor Bill should be contributed to the Colorado School of Mines Museum of Earth Science.