Bill Fredendall

William "Bill" James Fredendall of South Elgin, Ill., passed away on Jan. 30, 2014, following complications from surgery. He was 76. Loved ones will remember him for the way he lived his life - with gusto, generosity and humor. He leaves behind his loving wife, Fran; sister, Janet Freeland; niece, Deana Freeland; aunt Ela Schultz; cousins Roxana Schultz, Lynne Weinberger and Jeff Eckdhal; stepdaughters Linda Freeman, Kelly Scott and Suzann Kelly; friend Clair O'Neill and her daughters, Colleen O'Neill and Molly O'Neill-Schroeer, who were like daughters to Bill; and many more dear friends. Bill was a devoted son to his mother, Anita, who preceded him in death. A proud Chicagoan and American, Bill served in the U.S. Marine Corps, piloting an A-4 Skyhawk fighter in the 1960s. He made a career of flying, spending 33 years as a pilot with Delta Air Lines, rising to the rank of captain. Bill was an avid outdoorsman. He was happiest surrounded by nature, and supported many environmental and animal welfare causes. He made friends easily. He was witty, outrageous, sweet and mischievous. Bill Fredendall was a man with a big personality and an equally big love of life. He will be deeply missed. Services are pending; details will be available at www.countrysidefuneralhomes.com.