Bill Larson

Age 80 of Goose Lake, and formerly of Braceville, Illinois, died Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at his home.

Born June 15, 1945, in Elmhurst, Illinois, William Robert was a son of Verner and Dorothy (Mares) Larson. He was raised in Chicago, Illinois before moving to Braceville,  and later graduated from Gardner South Wilmington High School with the Class of 1963. Bill attended Joliet Junior College, where he completed an Associate's Degree, before being selected for military service. He served honorably in the United States Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller from 1967 until his discharge from military service in 1971. On July 22, 1967, Bill married Jacqueline Margaret Sorensen, and together they made their home and went on to raise their family in Goose Lake.

He worked in plastic blow molding as a supervisor for companies such as Ecolab and Dial for over 40 years until he retired. Not one to sit idle, Bill worked part time after retiring for Fisher Auto Parts and Advanced Auto Parts. His work ethic was unmatched and he took pride in providing for his family. Bill enjoyed being outdoors and took great pleasure in fishing and hunting. He was a collector of model trains and had an appreciation for firearms. Bill was a past member of the South Wilmington Fireman's Club and the Goose Lake Club, and understood the importance of relaxing after a hard day's work. Bill had his own quirky sense of humor, and will be remembered fondly by his family, friends, and anyone who crossed his path.

Survivors include his wife, Jackie Larson of Goose Lake, and two children: Michelle (Ben) Nettles of Diamond, Illinois and Marc (Steph) Larson of Shorewood, Illinois; four grandchildren: Kiannah (Jeremy) Hill of Braidwood, Illinois, Hunter Nettles of Diamond, and Blake and Brooklyn Larson, both of Shorewood; four great grandchildren: Jax and Killian Wickham, and Jacob and Kaleb Hill; one brother, Vern (Audrey) Larson of Rockford, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter in infancy, Mary Lynn Larson, and one nephew, Jay Larson.

Per Bill's wishes, cremation rites are being accorded and he will be laid to rest privately at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Bill’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory (815-634-2125)