Mr. William J. "Big Bill" Wilcox, Sr.

BARNEVELD - Mr. William J. “Big Bill” Wilcox, Sr., age 74, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 in the comfort and dignity of his home with his loving family by his side, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Avoca, Pennsylvania on November 6, 1945, William was the son of the late William and Doris (Schultz) Wilcox. He received his primary and secondary education in Pennsylvania, and later furthered his studies at MVCC receiving an Associate degree in Welding Technology. A proud veteran, “Big Bill” honorably served his country with the United States Air Force. On June 29, 1968 he married the former Diana Morgan with whom he shared over 50 years in a union filled with love and cherished memories. For many years Bill worked at General Electric at the French Road Plant up until its closing. He then used his skills to obtain a welding degree from MVCC. With the combined tools of on-the-job experience and higher education in his area of expertise, he qualified for a teaching position as an Instructor at MVCC in Welding, a calling he carried on until his retirement. Many will remember that Bill was a friend to everybody, always willing to drop what he was doing to lend a helping hand. He had a tremendously mechanical mind and there was nothing he couldn’t build or fix. He was google before there was google! He had a warm way with those he met and often endeared himself to them. Because Big Bill had a vast sense of humor and a unique way with words, he gave everyone he knew a custom fitting nickname. He was often seen around town driving his custom made trike. One of his fondest memories was his family’s ride to Sturgis, South Dakota on their motorcycles. As an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, especially with his crossbow (12 for12). Big Bill was able to touch the hearts of people he knew and loved and will never be forgotten. Bill is survived by his wife Diana; his son, William “Little Bill” Wilcox, Jr.; his daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Bob Wilcox, and an uncountable amount of amazing friends, especially acknowledging Willard (Rudy) Randall, Gru Teel, Ralphie, Rito, Scout, #2, the Angell and Amish Uber. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Raymond H. and Margaret Ruth (Olsen) Morgan; and his sister, Ellen Cook. Visitation will be held Saturday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. William’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Military Honors conferred.

Mr. William J. "Big Bill" Wilcox, Sr.

November 6, 1945 - February 11, 2020