William H. DeVries

William (“Bill”) Henry DeVries, loving father, husband, brother, and uncle, passed away on July 16, 2021 at the age of 68. Bill was born in Chicago, IL on March 8,1953. He graduated from Harold L. Richards High School in 1971.

He began working at age 16 for Beverly Fence Company, where he stayed for many years. Bill took particular pride in this job, and for the rest of his life he liked to point out the various fences he built in and around the Chicago area. He liked to remind people this was his contribution to the city. Upon leaving Beverly, Bill took on numerous jobs, including transporting trucks throughout the United States. He briefly worked for Waste Management Company of Chicago before concluding his career with Illinois Central Sweeping as a valued employee.

In his free time Bill enjoyed sports, baking, and spending time with his family. Throughout his life he played both baseball and softball, and was considered the “homerun hitter” on his team. He was a fan of all Chicago sports teams, but none more so than the Chicago Cubs. Bill loved baking, a tradition passed down by his mother. He brought sweets to every family function, and would often go out of his way to ensure everyone’s favorite treats were available. Most of all, however, Bill loved his family. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his children, siblings, nieces, and nephews, and he loved nothing more than when one of them called him "just to catch up."

Bill’s family and friends will miss him dearly, but most of all they will miss his generosity, thoughtfulness, dependability, and his sarcastic sense of humor.

Bill is survived by his wife, Pamela; his children, Anna Grimmett-Norris (Robert), William DeVries Jr. (Bonnie), Stephanie Eddins (Doug), Bryan DeVries (Kristina), Melanie Harrison (Luther), and Valerie Hagenhoff (John); his grandchildren; his brothers Denny (Carol), Jim, George (Tammy), and Charles; his sisters Marlene DeVries, Carol Garner (Mike), June Saidat (Barry), and Henrietta Timm (Mike); and his many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents Henry and Henrietta DeVries, his brother Henry DeVries, and his sister Floretta Iacono.

A memorial will be held on Friday, August 20, 2021 at Chapel Hill Gardens South Funeral Home and Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, with a memorial service at 1:00 pm. Inurnment to follow at Chapel Hill Gardens South Cemetery All who loved him are welcome.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelHillGardensSouth.com for the DeVries family. For more information, 708-636-1200. Due to COVID restrictions, no food is allowed to be brought into the funeral home.