G. William “Bill” Schaller, 87, of Fenton, IL, died Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Rock River Hospice & Home in Sterling, IL.
Bill was born April 5, 1938, in Sterling, to Granville William Schaller, Sr. and Ella “Sally” (McDonald) Schaller. He graduated from Dixon High School in 1956 and attended Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL. On July 1, 1960, he married Judith M. Jensen in Fenton, IL, and they shared their lives together for over 63 years, before her passing on September 12, 2023. Bill began his working career at Clinton Corn Processing Company (ADM) in Clinton, IA, later joining Chemplex (Lyondell), where he dedicated many years in the maintenance department, retiring as a Senior Maintenance Inspector in 2000. Committed to his community, he served on the Fenton Township Board from 1963 to 2025, holding various roles over the decades. His desire to help others also led him to become an EMS First Responder and later a Basic Level EMT. From 1990 to 2014, he faithfully served with the Morrison Hospital Ambulance Service and Erie Ambulance Service, providing care at emergencies and numerous community events. As a member of Fenton United Methodist Church, Bill generously gave his time in several capacities. He also enjoyed the camaraderie of local Bowling leagues. In his free time, Bill embraced both the outdoors and the simple pleasures of life, especially when shared with Judy–Bowling, camping, and playing cards together. He liked challenging himself with crossword puzzles and could often be found watching sports or NASCAR races. An avid trapper, deer hunter, fisherman, and golfer, Bill appreciated any opportunity to be outside. He especially loved taking his Corvette out for a drive whenever he had the chance.
Survivors include Mary (Brian) Oostenryk, Randy (Rita) Schaller, Cathy (Dan) Hawkins, and Dawn (Darin) Housenga;13 grandchildren, Brian Oostenryk, Jr., Meredith Miller, Mitch and Jordan Schaller, Katie (Adam) Hoagland, Alyssa (Joe) Fisher, Brianna (Doug) Chidester, Nick (Katie) Kaufman, Catie Hawkins, Nate Hawkins, Seth House, Logan (Addi) Housenga, and Braden Housenga; nine great-grandchildren; special cousin/”brother”/best friend, Gary Black; brother-in-law, Larry Jensen; sister-in-law, Julie Jensen.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judy; grandson, Jobe House; sister-in-law, Bev Jensen; brother-in-law, Don Jensen.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Morrison, IL.
His Memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Jeff Coester, Pastor of First Congregational Church in Sterling, officiating.
Interment will be at Fenton Cemetery, Fenton, IL.
Memorials have been established to Erie Fire Protection District and Morrison Community Hospital Ambulance Service.