William "Bill" E. Hertel

William (Bill) Edward Hertel, known for his effortless wit and deep love for family, passed away on March 23, 2025, after a sudden battle with cancer. He was 63.

Born on June 30, 1961, to the late William and Barbara (Langenfeld) Hertel, Bill grew up in the small Wisconsin town of Chilton. A Boy Scout and townie with a large yard, woods, and river to explore, he delivered the local paper and was a Catholic school kid and altar boy. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earning a degree in Journalism. An early adopter of Apple technologies, Bill worked in computer sales and education in Madison and Chicago in the 1980s before transitioning into a 30+ year career in Information Technology.

Bill met the love of his life, Lynn, in 1989 and married on September 5, 1992. They built a life together filled with laughter, dancing, and unwavering friendship. Together, they raised two children, Katelyn and Erik, instilling in them a sense of adventure and curiosity about the world.

To know Bill was to know joy. He had an unparalleled ability to make everyday moments feel special, whether by whipping up an incredible meal or making the smallest gathering feel like a celebration. He was the life of every party he attended and was often found on the dance floor or grabbing a beer with friends.

A die-hard Wisconsin Badgers fan, Bill proudly embraced his nickname, "Badger Bill." Saturdays in the fall were sacred, spent cheering for his team, often in the company of family and friends. His love for Wisconsin and its traditions was matched only by his love for travel. One of his most treasured trips was to Italy last summer, where he had the honor of walking his daughter down the aisle at her wedding.

An avid reader, Bill was drawn to books of all kinds but especially loved reading the news and staying civically engaged. He expressed his creative spirit through writing and drawing, talents he nurtured throughout his life. He was also a dedicated outdoorsman, happiest when hiking Wisconsin’s state parks, biking the Ozaukee County Interurban Trail, or simply sitting around a campfire with loved ones.

Bill believed deeply in the importance of experiences over material possessions. He made the most of every opportunity to explore, connect, and create lasting memories. His kindness, selflessness, and ability to bring joy to any occasion made him beloved by all who knew him.

Bill is survived by his wife Lynn; his children Katelyn (Michaś) and Erik; his six siblings Edie (Worth), Julia (Mark), Karen (Pete), Paul, Steve, and Jen Emma; and a large extended family who adored him. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched—with every shared meal, every winding bike ride, and every spontaneous burst of laughter.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grafton. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM and will be followed by Mass at 3:00 PM. In Bill’s memory, his family will be making a memorial gift to Restoring Lands: A Wisconsin Land Trust. Those who wish to contribute may do so through the family.