William Earl Elam

He was born in Macomb, Illinois to Earl Thomas and Buna Hope Harry Elam on June 25th 1944.

Bill is survived by three sisters: Judy (Jim) Stickelmaier, Leta Berbaum, and Robin (Randy) White and two brothers: Dennis (Virginia) Elam and Rich (Paula Sepich) Elam. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews: Bill, Susan, Jeanne, Bob, Tom, Chris, Riley and Ross as well as nineteen great nieces and nephews. He was the ever-present “Uncle Bill”.

He was preceded in death by his parents who he devoted many years to their care and quality of life. He was a loving and devoted son.

Bill grew up in rural Peoria County and attended Norwood Grade School and Limestone High School. He was involved in baseball, high school track and football. He was a Boy Scout and a dancer during the Order of the Arrow ceremonies at Camp Wokanda. Bill served in the United States Army and was stationed at Ft. McClellan in Alabama working in the chemical warfare division. Upon his discharge from the military, he began working at Caterpillar. There he worked for 42 years retiring in 2007. Bill served on the board of the Pleasant Valley Water Company for several years, providing support to the company his father helped build. Bill was a well seasoned and knowledgeable outdoorsman. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who also enjoyed trap shooting. He took pleasure in walking the hills and hollows of the Illinois woodlands keeping a keen eye out for deer antlers and the elusive morel. His gift for finding the spongy fungus is well known to his family and friends. Bill also enjoyed watching NASCAR and was particularly fond of Dale Earnhardt. He had a passion for fast cars especially his favorite Corvette. He appreciated reconnecting with high school friends to reminisce and socialize during monthly dinners. Carla’s Country Kitchen was his preferred breakfast spot and he truly loved his second family there. Bill’s family and friends were at the heart of who Bill was. His endearing smile, sharp wit and generosity will be missed by everyone who knew him and stories will be shared throughout the generations ensuring he will not be forgotten.

Funeral services will be Thursday, April 6th at 11:00 at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria. Pastor Jack Thompson will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services.

Burial will be in Swan Lake Cemetery in Peoria.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To view William’s memorial page or to leave an online condolence please go to www.davison-fulton.com.