William L. Onken

Born on February 20, 1936, in Peoria, he was the son of the late Margaret (Pruitt) and Earl Tyler. Bill attended Lee Grade School and Manual High School in Peoria.

From 1958 – 1964, Bill served in the US Army and was honorably discharged. On February 16, 1963, he married the love of his life, Gail P. Brunkel in Jersey City, NJ. Together they built a loving family and shared over six decades of marriage filled with laughter, travel, and countless memories.

After proudly serving his country in the United States Army, Bill began a long and dedicated career at Keystone Steel, where he worked for 42 and a half years.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Gail Onken; son, William T. (Melisa) Onken; daughter, Susan G. (Katy Walsh) Onken; seven grandchildren, Melissa, Brandon, Tori, Kirsten, Megan, Melissa, and Tyler; and 12 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Aside from his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Alison Campbell; a great-grandson, Colt Ellis; and three sisters, Betty Golden, Barbara Bastian, and Patricia Allen. Bill will be remembered for his devotion to family, his love of the outdoors, and his kind and steady presence. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, hard work, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A man of deep faith, Bill was a longtime member of St. John’s Church until its closing, after which he became a faithful member of St. Ann’s Parish. He was a lifetime member of the St. Jude Council Knights of Columbus #4333, where he held many offices including Grand Knight. He was also a proud member of the American Legion Post #979 and Chapter Z of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, where he enjoyed many adventures on his bike/trike. Bill was an avid fisherman, often found on the water with his son or good friend, Lee (Kenny) Smith.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. A Mass of Christian burial will be on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 11 am with visitation from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church in Peoria. Burial will follow at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria with full military honors. Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church or to Transitions Hospice.

Condolences and memories may be shared through Davison-FultonBartonvilleChapel.com