William D "Bill" Messer

Mt. Morris, IL, William D. "Bill" Messer, age 86, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and mentor; passed away in his home on Sunday April 12, 2015 with his family at his side. Bill was born September 16, 1928 in Mt. Morris, IL the son of Kenneth & Mildred (Pittenger) Messer. Bill graduated from Mt. Morris High school class of 1946; he attended Marquette, Rockford, and Highland Colleges. Bill married Thelma M. Ray on June 10, 1948 in Adeline, IL. He was a traffic manager for Kable Printing and Quebecor Printing in Mt. Morris IL retiring in 2003. Bill was a founding member of Blackhawk Officials. He umpired and officiated for many years. He also coached youth softball and baseball in Mt. Morris, IL. Bill was a member of the Mt. Morris Moose Lodge #1551, farm bureau, and St. Brides Episcopal church, Oregon, IL, Samuel H. Davis Lodge #96 which he served as a Past Master. Bill loved his family dearly playing ball, fishing, and enjoying the "65" Chevy at car shows. Survivors include his wife: Thelma Messer, Mt. Morris, IL; Son: Terry (Janice) Messer, Mt. Morris, IL; Sharon Lynn Maree, Charlotte, NC. Grandchildren: Rob (Shelly) Messer, Todd (Kayla) Messer, Eric (Shawn) Messer, Chris Huffman, Dusty (Kim) Huffman, and Jay Huffman. 7 Great Grandchildren and 11 Foster Children. Brothers: Arnold (Betty) Messer, Byron, IL, Doug (Sandy) Messer, Rockford, IL, Tom Messer, Mt. Morris, IL. Sister: Linda (Clarence) Bechtold, Mt. Morris, IL. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Brothers: Glen, Gene, Darrell, James, and Charles; Son in law: Clifford Maree. In Keeping with Bills' Wishes cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arraignments are handled through Finch Funeral Home, Mt. Morris, IL. Memorials to Serenity Hospice & Home, Mt. Morris Fire Department, Good Samaritan Fund, and/or Pinecrest Manor. Special thanks to Dr. Coates & Staff, also to Serenity Hospice & Home for their care of our Husband and Father.