Search by Name

Search by Name

William Katz Obituary

William M. Katz, of Oak Brook, Illinois, formerly of Chicago and Park Ridge, passed away on Saturday July 26, 2014 - just four days from his 89th birthday - surrounded by his loving family. William is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Rose Marie (nee Krug); their devoted sons Robert (Margaret) and Gary (Rita); and adoring grandchildren Kristina (Benjamin), Kathryn, Russell and Cortney. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII, William came back to Chicago and opened his own printing business with his two brothers, Bros Lithographing Company, where he served as President for over 67 years. William was an avid adventurer, piloting his own planes, racing vintage cars and fishing around the world. He was an instant friend to everyone he met, with an outgoing personality that filled any room. To honor his wishes, a private service was held at Du Page Crematorium in West Chicago, Illinois, for immediate family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune from Aug. 2 to Aug. 3, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for William Katz

Not sure what to say?





Michelle Trenkamp

August 26, 2014

Rose,
I will always remember Bill. You two have been an example of true love to me. I frequently think of how I hope Ryan and I care about each other for a lifetime, just as much as you two did. I loved seeing both of you every time you came in. It was the highlight of my day :) You and your family will be in my prayers.
Michelle Trenkamp

Rich and Marilyn Schmidt

August 24, 2014

So, sorry for your loss. He will be truly missed. Always good times with him and all of your family.

Kathy Kosinski (Lanners) and Family

August 4, 2014

Dear Aunt Rose and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you-
We are so sorry for your loss.
I have fond memories of Uncle Bill's gentleness,quiet humor,love of flying,
and a fondness for Porsche's.
God Bless.
Love,
Kathy and Family

Jim Lanners

August 4, 2014

Aunt Rose, Bob, Gary, and families,
Plerase accept my sincere condolences for you loss

Marilyn Mahn

August 3, 2014

Dear Rose & family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you and I know that Bill will certainly be missed. I am back in Indianhead Park from Florida as all of my family, except Bob, Jr. are in the area and are a great help to me. Bob, Sr. passed away 1/31/12 and I certainly do miss him. My e-mail is [email protected] and I would love to hear from you. Take care and I know that it is not going to be easy and no one can tell you that it will.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Love, Marilyn

August 2, 2014

Mrs. Katz, Gary , Rita, Bob and Marge, you have my deepest sympathies. May the many happy memories and funny stories about your husband / father ease your heartache. You will all be remembered in my prayers.
XO Cathy Burke

Richard Lanners

August 2, 2014

My thoughts and prayers for Uncle Bill to Aunt Rose, Bob, Gary and the rest of the family

John and Maureen Lanners

August 2, 2014

After losing my father several years ago, I realize how much it really hurts when you lose someone so close to you - our thoughts and prayers are with Uncle Bill and Aunt Rose, Bob, Gary and the rest of the family - Uncle Bill will always be remembered for his infectious humor and for being an all around nice and caring person - I am glad we were all able to visit a short time ago ...

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Make a Donation
in William Katz's name

Memorial Events
for William Katz

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Katz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more