Bill was a member of First United Presbyterian Church in Belleville, IL. He enjoyed fishing in his quiet time. He was a great story teller and had a great laugh. Bill worked in the automotive industry most of his life, and founded Launius Marketing Specialists. He formed many friendships through his career. He enjoyed working with his hands and could always be found in his garage working on a project. Although he struggled with many health issues through the years, he always fought to overcome them. He didn’t know how to say ‘no’. Even after his stroke, he had a positive attitude and was pleasant and kind to everyone who helped him, and he learned to say “thank you”. His will to prevail inspires us all. He was a great husband, father, uncle, and dear friend. Most of all, he was a great “Pa” to his grandchildren. He was so proud of all of them. We will all treasure the many wonderful memories made with him.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife Susan, nee Haywood, Launius; his parents, Carl and Fern, nee McMullin, Launius; and his sister and brother-in-law Nancy and Darwin Kraft. He is survived by his son William (Joan) Launius Jr. of Millstadt; his daughter Lori (Ken) Harris of Waterloo; his grandchildren William “Trey” Launius III, Kasey Launius, Hunter Harris, Carter Harris, Tanner Harris, and Cooper Harris; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Special thanks to Cedarhurst of Waterloo for their overwhelming generosity, care, and compassion; and to Mark Stein for his friendship and many visits over the last few years.
Friends may visit from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2021 at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home in Belleville, IL. Funeral service is at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 19 at the funeral home with interment to follow at Valhalla Gardens of Memory. Memorials may be made to American Stroke Association at www.stroke.org. Family can be notified of on-line memorials at Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.valhallagardensandfuneralhome.com.
With St. Clair County COVID mandate in place, guests will be required to wear masks and the maximum number of 50 guests will allow for proper social distancing. We appreciate your patience during these unique times.
