WILLIAM ALBERT GERMANSON

1935 - 2017

William Albert Germanson was born July 30, 1935 in Chicago, IL. William "Bill" the son of Roy and Edith grew up in Chicago with his sisters Hazel and Phyllis. Bill became a hard-working and talented mechanic and remained a life-long Cubs fan. At age 22, Bill enlisted in the United States Army and put his skills to work for our country. Bill achieved a rank of Sergeant and spent a number of years stationed around Germany where he had many adventures that he shared with his family and made great friends. Bill was honorably discharged on February 29, 1964.

In 1961, Bill met the love of his life Carrie Koestner while attending a Count Basie concert. Bill and Carrie were married on March 10, 1962. Together they raised daughter Cathleen and sons William and Robert.

In 1967 the Germanson family went on a vacation road trip to the Florida Keys and soon after Bill and Carrie decided to make the huge leap and relocated the family to Islamorada. Bill worked for Alonzo Cothron who was a leading developer in the upper keys. Following this, Bill owned his own paving company and later worked for Monroe County until he retired after 20 years of service. During these years Bill was an active member of the Moose Lodge and was a volunteer and Assistant Chief with the Islamorada Fire Department.

While in the Keys Bill grew the most fabulous orchids and loved tending fruit trees. Bill also was never without a furry companion. Over the years, the family had many husky pups which Bill never failed to give unique names. His beloved husky Natasha was very special to him.

Bill enjoyed music, specifically opera and could often be found listening to his favorite – "The Three Tenors". Bill and Carrie have traveled the world with a focus on Mexico where Bill particularly enjoyed the country's ruins. Through his travels Bill became fluent in several languages and could understand even more. His love of foreign cultures influenced other aspects of his life and he was an accomplished cook, recreating the favorite dishes from his travels.

In 2000 Bill moved to Green Cove Springs, Florida to be closer to family. In 2014 Bill and Carrie moved again to Jacksonville, Florida where he lived until his passing. Bill succumbed to illness on Saturday, October 21, 2017. Services are planned at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on Friday, November 3, 2017 at 11:30 am.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Carrie, children Cathleen McMillan and husband Daniel of Davenport, Florida, son William and wife DeAnna of Jacksonville, Florida and son Robert also of Jacksonville, Florida. Bill was blessed with six grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. Bill is survived by sisters Hazel Sanders and Phyllis Howard.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in honor of Bill to the American Cancer Society or the Community Hospice Foundation, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.