1945-2026
William “Bill” Eugene VanWaes passed away on Friday, June 26th, at OSF St. Luke's at 6:35 am. He was born on August 18, 1945, the son of Floyd “Flip” A. and Daisy Belle Jones VanWaes in Kewanee. He will be remembered for his humor and generosity, and those who knew him will remember the lasting impression he left on everyone around him. He was the life of the party and never allowed a dull moment.
He served in the Army from 1963 to 1965. Bill was an award-winning car salesman whose career spanned many years and several states. He worked at J&J Dodge in Princeton, Illinois; Mahoney Ford in Spring Valley, Illinois; and also spent time with large dealerships in Dallas, Texas, and Nashville, Tennessee. He took pride in his work, built lasting relationships with customers and colleagues, and was known for his professionalism, personality, and ability to connect with people.
In his retirement Bill opened B&B vintage bicycles in Kewanee with his brother-in-law Bill Brackett. Bill also spent time golfing, and opening his home to friends and family for playing cards, parking golf carts, and spending time with loved ones.
Bill is survived by his children: Shelli Hummrich (John) of Lincolnton, North Carolina; Shad VanWaes of Arizona; Traci VanWaes of Princeton, Illinois; and Amber Burress (Andrew) of Orange Park, Florida.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jordin Nally of Princeton, Illinois; Ezekiel (Zeke) Rosas of Princeton, Illinois; Tiffani Halterman of Walnut, Illinois; Starr (Ky) Mecum of Monterey, California; Kennedy Hayletts of Orange Park, Florida; Kayne Wade of Atalissa, Iowa; Leo Hummrich of Lincolnton, North Carolina; and Charley Wade of Orange Park, FL. Bill was blessed with 11 great-grandchildren, Finley, Otto, Haven, Alister, Ember, Malachi, Duke, Pippa, McCoy, Cora, and Malani, and many close family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Karol Sue Brackett (Kewanee). Bill’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. While his passing leaves a deep void, those who loved him find comfort in the many memories shared and the legacy of love.
The family invites all who knew Bill to remember and celebrate his life. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Golnick Family Funeral & Cremation Services in Kewanee. The funeral will be held following the visitation at 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Reverend Ed Jones will officiate. A private burial will take place at a later date. Military rites will be accorded by the Kewanee Veterans Council. Please leave a condolence online for Bill’s family at www.golnickhaskellfh.com.
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