Bill Nee

William H. Nee (Bill), 73, passed away on February 11, 2026, at Schmitt Woodland Hills, surrounded by family. He was born in Richland Center on October 18, 1952 to Harry J. and Freda Martin Nee. Both families have a long history in Richland County. Bill's grandparents were Coleman and Mary Lord Nee, and Harley and Georgianna Stoddard Martin.

Sadly in December, 1952, Bill had meningitis, encephalitis and hydrocephalus resulting in cerebral palsy and many admissions to U.W. Hospital in Madison. He courageously confronted the challenges. Providing advocacy for him in all of his adult years was his sister Jane Nee.

Bill had an enjoyable time in school. He attended the one room Pine River School for 8 years. He graduated from Richland Center High School in 1971. Under the encouragement of Mr. Ed Cochrane he became the manager/statistician for the football and basketball teams; Bill also was involved with the basketball team at Southwest Tech. He carried his love for sports throughout his life, and was a proud owner of a share in the Green Bay Packers.

After high school he attended Southwest Technical School in Fennimore and received a business degree. From 1973 until 1999 he was employed at Southwest Tech, first as Game Room Manager, and later he worked in the Maintenance Department. Bill was an extremely hard and conscientious worker, never missing work, unless he was in the hospital. Holidays and vacations were spent with his sister Jane, in Fort Atkinson. He also spent time with his sister Harriet Nee Meermann in Miami, and went on several long car trips with his brother Michael. His independent living in Fennimore was thanks to Keith and Sandy Stender; later he spent several years at Good Samaritan Assisted Living in Fennimore.

Bill moved back to Richland Center in 2015 and resided in Schmitt Woodland Hills, with opportunity for overnight stays at the Nee farm and participation in family reunions.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and brother Martin. He is survived by his two sisters, Jane Nee of Fort Atkinson and Richland Center, Harriet Nee Meermann of Miami, and by brother Michael Nee on the farm. He is also survived by nieces and nephews and their children.

A private family burial was Monday, February 16, 2026 at St. Mary's Cemetery in Richland Center. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, February 21, 2026 in the chapel at Schmitt Woodland Hills. Visitation is at 10:00 A.M, with a luncheon at noon.

Bill was a great brother and real trooper. May he rest in Peace.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.