William Colbert

William Carl Colbert, 81, of Kankakee, died Tuesday (Nov. 24, 2009) at the Illinois Veterans Home at Manteno. William “Bill” was born Oct. 19, 1928, the son of Henry and Margaret Colbert of Decatur. When World War II had begun, Bill joined the DSMTC (Decatur Schools Military Training Corps) in high school. After three years, he reached the grade of Master Drill Sergeant. After graduation, the war was over, but Bill enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve in the Korean War. While in the service, he married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Helen Strahle, on Jan. 30, 1949. The couple lived in Decatur and after Bill was honorably discharged from the service, he worked at the Daily Herald newspaper as a pressman. Bill took a promotion opportunity in Chicago Heights as superintendent of engraving for the Chicago Heights Star. He moved his wife and two sons to Matteson and moved to several homes through his working career. Bill and his wife, Margaret, retired in Kankakee. After retiring, Bill and Margaret enjoyed traveling, whether it be to see their children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, or to exotic locations in the Caribbean on a regular basis. Bill and Margaret also attended Christian Hills Church in Tinley Park and made many lifelong friends. Bill managed to have a successful career, loving family and a journey filled with great scenery and fascinating destinations. Bill is also remembered for his sense of adventure, enthusiasm for the outdoors, such as fishing and appreciation for nature. His kindness, sense of humor, gentle manner and twinkle in his eye will be missed by all. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; his two sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Donna Colbert, and William and Annette Colbert; his six grandchildren, Candace, Jonathan, Nicole, Douglas, Rebekah, Abigail; two greatgrandchildren, Abriel and Aiven; and his brother, Henry Colbert. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. A memorial gathering will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on Saturday (Nov. 28, 2009) at Calvary Bible Church, 2587 E. Armour Road in Bourbonnais. The memorial service will be held at 11:15 a.m. Saturday. Luncheon will immediately follow at the church. Arrangements are by the Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home, Bourbonnais. Memorials may be made to Calvary Bible Church.

William Colbert

October 19, 1928 - November 24, 2009