William B. Hoke

Age 77, a resident of the Illinois Veterans Home in Manteno and formerly of Joliet, Illinois, died unexpectedly on Saturday afternoon, September 13, 2025.

Born February 11, 1948, in Patuxent River, Maryland, William Bruce Hoke was the first born son of Harold and Helen Alice (Sayon) Hoke. He spent his early years in Wyoming before relocating to Illinois with his family, where he graduated from Westville Township High School in Westville, Illinois.

After high school, Bill answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army on August 8, 1968. He served honorably until April 14, 1983, dedicating 15 years to his fellow soldiers and the nation he loved. Following his military service, he pursued his passion for cooking, earning an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts from Joliet Junior College, and worked for Bob Evans in Joliet for 23 years.

Bill was an active member of Cantigny Post 367 Veterans of Foreign Wars in Joliet and a former devoted member of Fellowship Bible Church. He cherished his faith and took comfort in the study of the Bible.

A lifelong sports fan, Bill loyally followed the Chicago White Sox, Blackhawks, and Bears. He had a love for collecting baseball cards and matchbox cars, and cherished the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meeting new ones.

Bill’s life was defined by service, generosity, and quiet joy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his sister-in-law, Deborah Wilds of Clarksville, Arkansas; nieces and nephews: Traci (Joe Walker) Logan of California, John (Jessica) Logan of Indiana and Emalee Hoke of Arkansas, and one great nephew, Charlie, as well as several cousins.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Helen Hoke and his brother, Dennis Eugene Hoke.

Arrangements are currently being planned, and a celebration of Bill’s life and memorial service will be announced at a later date.

He will be laid to rest in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery, along with his parents and brother.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Bill’s memory to Disabled American Veterans.

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.

Services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)