Billie L Dreesen

Bill served in the Army from 1945-1947. He worked as a lineman for Central Illinois Light Company in Princeville Illinois for 38 years.

He married Donna Alta Oldenberg March 16, 1946, and she preceded him in death May 1973. They had five children, Michael Lee Dreesen, Marsha Lynn (Dreesen) Peterson, Marvin Lloyd Dreesen, Melanie Lou Dreesen, and Michelle Louise (Dreesen) Cawley. He was preceded in death by Michael and Melanie.

Bill married Doris Mae (Cox) Hunter November 2, 1974. The family grew to include William James Hunter and Patricia Marie (Hunter) Ellis.

Bill earned his private pilot’s license in 1949 through the GI bill and earned his instrument rating in 1981. He had a passion for flying and owned three airplanes during his life. He was a Boy Scout leader, charter member of the VFW post in Princeville Illinois, served as a Deacon of the Presbyterian Church in Princeville Illinois, member of the Cape Coral Sailing Club, and volunteer at the Fort Myers Historical Museum restoring antique aircraft. Bill was an avid woodworker and had a love of music. Bill and Doris retired to Florida in 1989. After moving to Florida, he became interested in sailing and owned two sail boats.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Betty Lou (Dale) Schmitt and his brother Glen Edward Dreesen.

Bill is survived by his wife of 47 years, Doris Mae (Hunter) Dreesen, Son William (Jim) & Linda Hunter, Daughter Marsha (Dreesen) & Gary Peterson, Daughter Patty (Hunter) Ellis and Leslie, Son Marvin Dreesen, Daughter Michelle (Dreesen) Cawley and Darcy, and brother-in-law Dale (Betty Lou) Schmitt. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren.

Donations can be made to VFW Post 10127, 996 Pondella Road, North Fort Myers, Florida 33903 or American Legion Post 336, 5770 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers, Florida 33917.

The family would like to thank Hope Hospice for their care and support, donations can be made to Hope Hospice Development Department, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.

No services planned at this time.