Photo courtesy of Adams Funeral Chapel - Charleston
Jan 9, 1935 - Jun 23, 2018
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. Ruth has alot of good memories of when you two were in Seattle. God be with you and comfort you, Erlene
Ruth and Al Sorensen
July 25, 2018 | Maricopa, AZ | Family
Real sorry to hear about Bill . I was a cousin but had not seen him for awhile.
Ronald Davis
July 09, 2018 | Springville, TN | Family
So sorry to hear of Bills passing. Continued prayers for you and your fsmily
Anba Koester
June 24, 2018 | Mattoon, IL | Friend
CHARLESTON, IL – Billy E. Updegraff, age 83 of Charleston, entered his Heavenly Home on Saturday, June 23, 2018 while at Hilltop Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center. A Graveside Service honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at Enon Cemetery located in Ashmore Township, with Reverend Joy Starwalt officiating. It is requested that in lieu of flowers, donations in his honor be made to Lincolnland Hospice. Gifts may be mailed in care of Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.
Bill was born January 9, 1935 in Ashmore Township, the only child of the late Robert and Lillie (Finney) Updegraff. He married Erlene Walters on July 15, 1956 in Ashmore and they have been inseparable, sharing a special love and friendship for nearly 62 years. Following their marriage, Erlene’s family became his own and he is also survived by four nieces, whom he loved as daughters, and their families, Carla Oakley and husband Phil of Charleston, Donna Trone and husband Randy of Columbia, Illinois, Michelle Diepholz and husband Rob of Greer, South Carolina and Jan Crucitti and husband Eric of Terre Haute, Indiana; two brothers-in-law, Robert (R.C.) Walters and Bud Walters, both of Ashmore; and other extended family, including three nieces and a nephew. Bill is also survived by his Shih Tzu, Babe who was his very special canine companion.
Bill was a 1953 graduate of Charleston High School and served his country with the United States Army from 1957-1959. He was one of five who founded and co-owned Thompson Lincoln Auto Parts, which is still a successful company today. He was a member of Salisbury Church and also carried memberships with the Charleston Moose Lodge #1388, Charleston Elks B.P.O.E. #623 and the Coles County Old Car Club.
Bill’s career choice suited him well as he was an avid lover of cars – of any type, big or small. He also enjoyed camping and traveling with Erlene, other family and friends, and Babe! Bill’s pleasant and outgoing personality earned him the respect and friendship of many and he will be missed by them, as well as a family who loved him dearly.
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