William R. Stern, age 97, New London passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 7, 2014.
He was born on March 31, 1917, in Shawano, son of the late William F. and Barbara (Blick) Stern. On November 26, 1938, Bill was united in marriage to Marie Millard. They celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary in November of 2013. He was well known in the New London area as a building contractor and built many homes in the area. After his retirement as a contractor Bill served as New London building inspector for many years. During WWII he was employed at the Manitowoc ship yards. He was a life long member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, New London and was very active serving on many church committees and also a member of the Knights of Columbus Father Herb Council #1797.
Bill is survived by his wife Marie; seven children: Mary Lou (Les) Prochnow, New London; Dick (Carol) Stern, Shawano; Joyce (Gary) Schroth, Appleton; Betty (Gary) Mytton, New London; Jeanne (Steve) Fichter, Appleton; Bill (LuAnn) Stern, Shawano and Jane Stern, Appleton; brother, Dave Stern, Wisconsin Rapids; sisters-in-law, Carol Stern, Arizona; and Rose Stern, New London. He is further survived by 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, a grandson, and a great-grandson.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, New London with Fr. Joseph Irudamoney officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you to his Arc Angels Caregivers and Sue from ThedaCare Hospice for their kindness in caring for their father. “The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.” Cline & Hanson Funeral Home, New London, is assisting the family with arrangements. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com