Marion- William Fredrick “Bill” Reel, age 81, of Marion, passed away at 7:55pm on Saturday, November 23, 2013 at his home in Marion.
William was born in Marion on April 26, 1932, the son of Vernell and Mildred (Anderson) Reel. Ever since he was a little boy, Bill wanted to be a farmer. Once he was old enough he became one. He farmed for over 60 years on his property south of Marion. Over the years, he traveled across the United States and Canada with his dogs herding sheep, the hobby he loved the most. Another activity he loved was hunting and making many friends who knew him as "Willy".
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Lois I. (Wilson) Reel; his son, Michael Reel, and his two granddaughters, Taylor and Michaela Reel.
Proceeded in death by his parents, Vernell Reel and Mildred Anderson Reel, and his son, William David Reel.
Graveside memorial services will be held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion. Rev. Tim Ozment will officiate. Family and friends are asked to gather directly at the cemetery. Blue Funeral Home in Marion is assisting the family with memorial arrangements.
Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court St/ Marion, IL 62959. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit
www.bluefuneralhome.com