William “Bill” J. Crain

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 31, 2016, at the age of 86. Bill was born to his parents, Arthur and Margaret (Loughrin) Crain, in New London, Wisconsin on October 1, 1929.

On May 5, 1955 Bill married Suzanne A. (nee Rohan) and remained her loving husband for the next 59 years. He was the proud father of Michael (Dottie), William Jr. (LuAnn), Shawn (Kathleen), Beth Anne, and Rob (Nicole) and the devoted Grandpa of Brendan, Lizz, Logan, Jess, Meghan (Taw), Dylan, Liam, Michael, Aidan, Rohan, Riley and Finleigh. Bill is also survived by his brother Robert and in-laws Mary Fran Crain, Clair Flease, Arnold Tennie, and Lois and James Stanek. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Elmer and Susan Rohan, as well as brothers and sisters; Jack, Marge Flease, Kathleen Tennie, Marie Jagoditsch, Regina Bricco and Arthur; and in-laws Gail Crain, Edward Jagoditsch, David Bricco, Patricia Crain, Jack and Lauretta Farrell, and Fr. Patrick Rohan SDS.

Bill served in the United States Air Force for four years. A member of the United Steel Workers Union, Bill worked for 42 years in the production department at Continental Can Company in Milwaukee. He was also a long-time member of the Fred C. Miller Council of the Knights of Columbus and regularly volunteered his time and energy in charitable service. A good athlete, he remained a life-long sports enthusiast and fan, faithfully cheering his Packers, Badgers and Marquette teams.

Bill was a dedicated family man. He found great happiness spending time with his children and grandchildren, supporting their wide and varied interests and activities. He enjoyed family gatherings, both large and small, and was particularly fond of those occasions that provided him the opportunity to celebrate his Irish heritage.

The family would like to thank the caring staffs at Silverado Memory Care in Brookfield and Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc for all they did for Bill to provide him enjoyment and comfort.

Bill possessed a wonderful sense of humor and always maintained his positive outlook. He was a kind and gentle man who will be missed by all who knew him.

To recognize Bill's belief in the importance of charitable giving and service, we welcome memorials to be made to the charity of your choice.