William J. “Bill” Hebel Sr., 88, of Sheffield, Illinois, passed away on March 22, 2026, just two days before his 89th birthday. Born on March 24, 1937, in Peru, he was the son of Margaret and Frank Krumscheid and was later adopted by Anthony Hebel. He graduated from LaSalle-Peru High School and carried the values of his upbringing throughout his life.

Bill married the love of his life, Carlene Galassi, on October 26, 1957, and together they shared 68 years of marriage. He served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, attaining the rank of SPC-3 in the 3rd Infantry Honor Guard. During his service, he marched in Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Inaugural Parade and completed a three-month tour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honors that reflected a chapter of his life marked by dedication and duty.

In his working years, Bill was an electrical supply salesman. In retirement, he volunteered at Kewanee Hospital. He was also an avid golfer often seen on the course with Pete Meyer and friends. Bill traveled to many places with his wife and especially loved cruises. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and attended their school and sporting events. He was also a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sheffield, a member of the Sheffield Lions Club and a member of Hidden Lake golf Club where he had a hole-in-one.

He is survived by his wife, Carlene; his daughters, Patricia (Al) Corwin and Peggy (Julius) Maes; his grandchildren, Caitlyn (Adam) DeMay, Kari (Tyler) Kipp, and Cassi (Derek) Pistole; and his great-grandchildren, Cali Pistole, Cambri Pistole, Rilynn DeMay, Jaelynn DeMay, Maesie Kipp, and Carli Pistole. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Mary Lynn Meyer of LaSalle, nieces, nephews, cousins and in addition 1st cousin, James (Mary Ann) Felton of California. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, William J. Hebel Jr., and Brother-in-Law Peter Meyer.

A Funeral Mass for Bill will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 27 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sheffield where military rites will be accorded by the Neponset American Legion. Celebrant will be Fr. S. Stephen Engelbrecht. A visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the services at the church. Inurnment will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Kewanee at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Sheffield Lions Club or to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is assisting the family with arrangements.

Bill’s life was one of service, commitment, and devotion to the people he loved most. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were blessed to know him.