William "Bill" O. Wilhelm, age 82, a Manitowoc resident, entered eternal life on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at his residence with family by his side.

Bill was born on January 22, 1941 in Flint, Michigan.  He was the son of the late John and Catherine Maxam Wilhelm.  Bill enlisted in the United States Army and served his country overseas in South Korea.  After his honorable discharge, Bill and his wife moved to Manitowoc.  He was employed with Grey Iron Foundry for many years until poor health forced him to retire.  On September 20, 1960 he married Marilyn Groothoff in Decorah, Iowa.  She preceded him in death on July 13, 2013.  Bill was a member of the Viking Gun Club.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed being in the great outdoors.  Bill was well known for his great smoked fish that was enjoyed with his family.

He is survived by seven children, Benny Wilhelm, Manitowoc, Randy Wilhelm, Manitowoc, Lisa (Robert) Walters, Manitowoc, Joseph Wilhelm, Two Rivers, Charles Wilhelm, Two Rivers, twin brothers, John and Kenneth Wilhelm both of Manitowoc; 14 grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two sisters, Donna Snook and Veda Wilhelm, both of Michigan; nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Catherine Wilhelm, wife, Marilyn, two sons, one granddaughter, 12 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Monday, September 25, 2023 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home.  Officiating will be Lisa Novachek.  Relatives and friends may call at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m.  Burial will take place at Knollwood Cemetery at a later date.  Following the funeral service military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Drews Bleser Post #88 at the funeral home.  A luncheon will be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center located on the south property of the funeral home after the military honors.

The family would like to convey their special thanks to Bill's granddaughter, Jamie, along with the Aurora Hospice staff for their compassionate care during this difficult time.  Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.