William "Bill" Lavicka

William "Bill" Lavicka

William "Bill" Lavicka, age 61, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2023 surrounded by his family.

Bill impacted so many lives and was loved by many friends and family. He will be deeply missed.

Bill was born in Wausau, WI to Dick and Judy Lavicka. He graduated from McDonell Central High School in Chippewa Falls, WI in 1980.

Bill joined the National Guard Reserves after graduation and was a sharpshooter during his basic training. He graduated from CVTC to become a Journeyman Lineman. Bill was a member in good standing with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 953 in Eau Claire, WI.

He began his Utility working career in 1992 with Northern States Power Company (NSP) now Xcel Energy, serving a full apprenticeship and became a Journeyman Lineman. During his long career Bill served on many safety and apprenticeship committees and helped train and mentor the next generation of workers. Bill was a proud member of his Union and would be seen frequently at Union meetings and events.

Bill was a Golden Gloves heavyweight boxer at the Chippewa Valley Boxing Club in Chippewa Falls and won his first Wisconsin State Golden Gloves heavyweight Novice Division Title March 14, 1983, in Milwaukee. Bill was dedicated to this sport and went on to win other championship titles and loved being a part of the USA Amateur Boxing Federation.

Bill was a devoted Packer fan and also loved watching and going to the Buck, Badgers, and Brewers games.

Bill enjoyed the outdoors playing softball for many years, hunting, ice fishing, and spending time with family and friends at his cabin. He also enjoyed shooting pool league and was an avid reader.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Dick Lavicka and father-in-law, David Larson. Bill is survived by wife, Lynda; daughter, Lisa; son, Joshua (Emilee) Patrow; sister, Renee (Dan) Gharrity; brother, Scott Lavicka; sister, Julie (Guy) Jensen; brother-in-law, Tony (Jamie) Larson; brother-in-law, Paul (Jill) Larson; mother, Judy Lavicka; mother-in-law, Beverly Larson; grandchildren: Elizabeth, Sydnee, and Ranen; and by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins; and best friends: Tim Connor and Chuck Blunt.

A special thank you to Dr. Basu and the incredible team at the Mayo Cancer Center for their loving care of Bill. We also would like to thank the West Ridge Church family for all the love and support during this time.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at Chippewa Valley Cremation Services in Altoona with Pastor Paul Smith of West Ridge Church officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 p.m. and after service until 5:00 p.m.

Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center in Altoona, WI is assisting the family with arrangements. To sign the guestbook or share a memory online, please visit www.chippewavalleycreamation.com.