William “Bill” Albert Claeys, 70, of Galesburg, died at 9:12 a.m. Sunday, January 26, 2020, at home. Bill was born February 25, 1949, in Kewanee, the son of Charles A. and Shirley C. (Lamb) Claeys. He graduated from Kewanee High School. He served in the US Army from April 1, 1971, until March 30, 1973. He was stationed in Danang, Vietnam with the 406th General Supply CO. TUSA. Bill was a proud veteran. Bill worked as a truck driver for many years, last working for Willis Steel until his retirement. Bill married Linda M. Curry on October 27, 1990, in Galesburg. She survives; as do two daughters, Carrie (Roger) Fitzsimmons of Galesburg and Nina Dittmer of LaSalle; one stepson, Joshua (Siri) Curry of Clarksville, TN; and two sisters, Debbie (Dale) Lindstrom and Kathy Wemple both of Kewanee. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and two sisters. Bill enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles as well as his 1948 Willy’s Jeep and his 1963 Ford Truck. He loved vintage vehicles. Bill was an avid music listener especially country and classic. He loved all animals especially his dogs and in later years, his cats. Bill liked to know the US and World News, knowing and caring for his country. Bill enjoyed walking and riding his bicycles.
Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2020, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Cremation rites will follow the visitation. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 31, 2020, in the veteran’s section at East Linwood Cemetery where military honors will be performed. Memorials may be made in memory of Bill to the family or the Guardian Angels. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
