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April 25, 2024
William “Bill” J. Kline, a resident of Fort Myers, Fla., and formerly of Woodstock, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2021, at the age of 77.
Bill was born in Woodstock on April 25, 1944, to Ray and Martha Kline. He attended Woodstock High School where he met his wife, Marilyn (Wernstrum), and graduated in 1962. Bill and Marilyn were married on July 18, 1964.
Bill is survived by his beautiful wife, Marilyn, of 57 years; his daughters, Kimberly (Art) Kozak and Nicole (James) Horvat; grandchildren, Cassandra (fiancé Sam McDaid) Barrett, Thomas Barrett, Tyler Barrett, Andrew Horvat, and Annalise Horvat. He is also survived by his brother, James (Rita) Kline, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Don Kline and Eddie Kline; a sister, Edith Kline; and nephews, Kelly Kline and Tim Kline.
In 1974 he started his tool and die business, Wm. J. Kline & Co. Inc., and continued to be a part of it until his death. He was on the Woodstock Fire Department for 12 years, which he loved, and was a member of the Woodstock Moose Lodge. When he was not working, you could find Bill traveling with his wife, golfing, fishing with Florida friends in the Gulf of Mexico, and spending time with the grandchildren at dance recitals, band concerts, many sporting events of which Ultimate Frisbee was his favorite. He loved his annual fishing trip to Canada with his brother and friends. Bill lit up a room wherever he went with his contagious smile and the well-known “Kline” laugh. He was best known for his kind heart and loyal friendship by everyone from Illinois to Florida and everywhere in between. Bill accepted the best of everybody, was a peacemaker and a great man.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, at Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., in Woodstock from 3 to 6 p.m.
Memorials may be made to the Woodstock Fire Rescue District in memory of Bill.
For information, contact the Schneider Leucht Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home at 815-338-1710 or visit slmcfh.com.
