William (Bill) David Stoneking

William (Bill) David Stoneking, 85, of Utica, Ill., passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025. Born on January 5, 1940, to Ralph and Irene (Logan) Stoneking in Macomb, Ill., Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family above all else.

On May 6, 1961, Bill married Bobbie L. Stoneking in Watseka, Ill. Together, they built a life rooted in love and adventure. Bill loved his family dearly and was the proud father of six children: Rick (Jan), Brad (Dian), Renee (Ben Juliano), Natalie (the late Klaus Hemmer), Mark (Mary Kay), and Todd (Jennifer). His legacy includes 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

A man of integrity and hard work, Bill began his career at Davy Logan Construction, where he developed a strong work ethic and a diverse skill set. He later worked at Ill. Electric Porcelain Supply Company before joining Western Electric, which became AT&T and Lucent. After 40 dedicated years of service, Bill retired in 2002.

Bill had a passion for the outdoors, spending countless hours fishing and finding solace in hunting deer, squirrels, and rabbits. He also had a deep love for riding his Harley-Davidson and traveling the country with Bobbie in their camper van. Together, they explored national parks and historic sites, creating memories that are much cherished by their family.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Irene Stoneking, his sister, Terry Lynn Sliger, and great grandson, Gabriel Watson. His warmth, love, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered by his family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on 1:00 P.M. Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Jones Funeral Chapel, (217 E Depot St., Colchester, Ill.). Burial will follow the services at Hutchinson Cemetery.  Visitation with the family will be from 12:00 PM  to 1:00 P.M. on Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to:  Hutchinson Cemetery, In Care of Lyle Hickman, 309 Young St. Colchester, IL 62326.  The family will hold a celebration of life in Utica, Ill., at a later date to honor Bill’s remarkable life and legacy.  Condolences and memories can be expressed to the family at jonesmortuaryfh.com.

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