William J. Grant

DeDe, I had no idea Billy was ill. Theresa told me of his passing a couple of weeks ago and I just could not believe it. He was so wonderful...and funny. A great personality. The obit is just beautiful and written just perfectly. I learned a lot about Billy that I did not know. You two were an amazing couple complimenting each other ideally. My heart goes out to you and the boys. Please take care of you. Shelley

Billy and I got to be very close over the last twenty years. He was a kind warm hearted loving friend. We had a very special relationship. Most of the time we were at Sunset Park eating lunch, talking politics, or old times. We made it a point to also meet for dinner once a month. Billy was the type of person who would help whenever possible. A day won´t go by in which he will not be remembered. John Rappaport

It was an honor and a privilege to have Billy as a friend. His generosity, honesty, and openness were boundless. In my experience, there were no walls or defenses when engaging with him; he was fearless in putting himself out there -- a person who would give you the shirt off his back and if necessary take a bullet for you. I was a better person for knowing him. I miss Billy, and will be forever thankful for our friendship.

Truly someone I will miss seeing at the Ravinia Farmers Market this year. Knowing him since 2nd grade has been my pleasure in life. Its hard to imagine not being able to see or talk to him again ,though his memory will continue during my lifetime -- Peace be with u my old friend and condolences to his entire family .

Bill was one VERY COOL dude ... genuine, wise, honorable, strong, compassionate, fun, funny, gentlemanly, creative, well-informed, worldly, gutsy, humble, generous, good-vibed, and a fine conversationalist. He was a wonderful friend, whom I admired and cherished like a brother. While I miss him mightily, there´s solace in knowing that he enjoyed a relatively fulfilled, fine life. My deepest condolences to Deedee, Bill´s sons, other family members, and friends.