William "Bill" J. Hoefle

William ‘Bill’ Hoefle, 85 passed away peacefully at home on April 6, 2026.

Bill was born on September 26, 1940, in Freeport, IL to Wealtha (Schwartz) Hoefle and Loran ‘Shorty’ Hoefle. He graduated from Dakota High School in 1958.

On April 1, 1960, Bill married the love of his life, Janice (Ross). Together, they shared a lifetime of memories totaling 66 wonderful years. These years included cherished summers with their family at Castle Rock Lake, in WI and later in Sabula, IA. Time was spent fishing, boating, laughing with friends, and making new ones.

Bill was employed by Micro Switch, now Honeywell in Freeport, IL. He started his Micro Switch career loading parts into a machine. Bill retired 45 years later as a process engineer programming the newer CNC machines. Bill spent many years pitching horseshoes and bowling. His bowling team was always competitive and won the Freeport City Tournament in 1973. In his later years, Bill was an avid golfer who cherished time spent on the course. Jan and Bill were members at Wolf Hollow for many years. He accomplished a hole in one on the 2nd hole at Wolf Hollow. Many friendships came from Bill’s work and play life. More recently he has enjoyed puttering in his garage and always had an ample garden. Weeds in his yard, were few and far between.

Known for his sharp wit and easygoing nature, he was a friend of many and brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. More than anything, he will be remembered for his steady presence, his deep love for his family, and the simple meaningful way he lived his life. He handed down many things to his sons, who in turn placed those same gifts into the hands of their children—strength, humor, tradition, and a love that showed up again and again. Among these legacies was his love for Cribbage. Countless hours were spent crowded together in his overly warm garage, cards slapping the table, laughter filling the air. It was there—in that heat, in those games—that love became something we could hear, feel, and will carry forward.

He is survived by his wife, Janice, sons; Kip (Lorri) of Ridott, Steve (Michele) of Nashville, TN, and Bill Jr of Freeport, sister Jerri (Jim) Wilson of Des Moines, IA, nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Bob and his beloved Siamese cat Freddie.

He is deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Friday, May 8th from 3:00 to 8:00pm at Wolf Hollow Golf course in Lena, IL. We welcome family and friends to join us around 6:00pm to share stories, memories, and any words they wish to offer in celebration of a life so deeply loved.