William Lowell Schuessler

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, and friend, William Lowell Schuessler, who passed away unexpectedly on August 16, 2025, at the age of 22.

Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, William moved with his family to Downers Grove, Illinois, in 2009. There, he spent most of his life surrounded by friends, family, and the community.

Will attended El Sierra Elementary School, O'Neill Middle School, Downers Grove South High School, and graduated as a home school "honor" student from Illinois Interest & Aptitude Academy. Will was a gifted athlete and competed in all aspects of life. As a captain of the varsity wrestling team, he competed at the Illinois State Wrestling Championship. From sophomore year to senior year, he was also a respected midfielder on the varsity lacrosse team, always bringing his energy, leadership, and heart to every person, every team, and every pursuit. As a member of the Chicago Bow Hunters Club, he competed and won a target archery state championship.

William's passion for aviation and service was evident from a young age. He was a proud member of the Civil Air Patrol, rising to the rank of Cadet Commander of the Col. Shorty Powers Composite Squadron. His drive and commitment led him to earn a prestigious NROTC Marine Corps Scholarship, attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. Will earned the title of Marine by graduating from Officer Candidate School and was then set to graduate in December 2025 with a degree in Aeronautical Science.

As an avid aviator, born in the year of the hundredth year of the first flight, Will achieved his private, commercial, flight instructor, instrument flight instructor, multi-engine, complex, and high-performance ratings. As a member of the Brookeridge Aviation community, Will has been blessed to fly with so many community members who generously supported Will in his pursuit of a career in Aviation.

Will is lovingly remembered by his parents, Nathan and Emily Schuessler; his sisters, Laurie and Barbara; and both sets of grandparents, Gene and Judy Schuessler, DePere, WI, and Greg and Mary Ellen Wright, Oshkosh, WI. In addition, there are many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, Midshipmen, Marines, classmates, teammates, and countless others whose lives he touched with his strength, humility, humor, and kindness.

A funeral Mass with military honors will be held on Tuesday, August 26, at 12:00 PM at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Darien, Illinois, to celebrate Will's life and the remarkable young man he was.

Will had a rare gift - he made everyone he met feel seen, valued, and important. To him, everyone was special. He had a way of lifting others up: giving confidence when doubtful, strength when weak, and light when in darkness. He wasn't just kind - he was the kind of person who made the world better simply by being in it. Truly, one in a million.

Will touched so many lives in his 22 short years. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The family is establishing a foundation to help young people Discover interest and purpose, Define opportunities, and Develop skills that assist them in taking their next step in life. In honor of his spirit and determination, the motto "Where there is a Will, there is a way" will guide this effort.

Therefore, in lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family to support this foundation. More information about the foundation and ways to honor Will's legacy will be shared in the coming weeks.