Bill W. Cantrell

Bill W.  Cantrell, 87, Rockford, IL passed away on October 2, 2009, surrounded by his loving family.  Born January 1, 1922 in West Frankfort, IL, son of George Carl and Bernice (Utley) Cantrell.  Married Sue Rowe on June 2, 1943 in the Hennepin Ave. Methodist Church, Minneapolis, MN.Bill was proud of his military service in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during World War II, serving in Italy and N. Africa.  Although wounded in action, he declined a well-deserved Purple Heart.  He was an avid reader, a gun and knife enthusiast, and he and his wife Sue square danced in their early years, and were dedicated rockhounds, collecting all over the country.  Bill had a unique sense of humor, always had a story to tell, enjoyed music, and loved words, from Shakespeare to Scrabble.Survivors include daughters Deborah Hesselberth, Rockford,  Stephanie (Mike) Pace, Belvidere, grandsons, Shawn (Sylvanie) Eisenach, Santa Rosa, CA, Michael Hesselberth, Rockford, sisters Joan Bogart, Hannibal, MO and Jeanne Webb, Crosby, TX, sister in law, Helene Cantrell, Crosby, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.  Our thanks to the many medical personnel who gave him such good care over the years.  Special thanks to the VNA team, Bobbie, Winnie and Vicky, for their comfort and care during Bills last days.  Predeceased by parents, his wife of 60 years, Sue, and brother George Carl. Visitation from 4-6 pm Monday, October 5, 2009 at Fitzgeralds Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, Rockford, IL.  Memorials to the family.