`William W. Birdsell
Passed away April 28,2022 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born March 12, 1932 in Jacksonville, Illinois to Flossie & Robert Birdsell.
Bill graduated from Brimfield High School in Brimfield Illinois in 1951, where he met Nancy Knight. They were married on September 13, 1952.
He is survived by wife Nancy Birdsell, and his 5 children: Mark Birdsell, Colleen Maskel, Debbie Krall, Donna Rusick and her husband Charlie Rusick, and Tim Birdsell and his wife Traci Birdsell. He has 11 Grandchildren and 29 Great Grandchildren.
Bill served in the Navy from 1952-1956. He also served the communities in which he lived as a member of the Lions Club and American Legion. He was also a church leader supporting the local food pantry, organizing clothing drives and was a 100-gallon Red Cross blood donor.
After leaving the Navy, Bill and Nancy farmed for 8 years, and then he worked in the agricultural chemical industry for the remainder of his career. Bill enjoyed fishing and hunting throughout his life. Bill and Nancy travelled with each of their Grandchildren over the years.
It was Bill’s wish to be cremated and his remains will be interred at Camp Butler Military Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois this summer, where his family and friends will celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Shriners Children Hospital in Bill’s name.