Ernest Wm. "Bill" Niemi

Ernest Wm. "Bill" Niemi December 20, 1926 – February 11, 2012 Bill Niemi graced our community for over 85 years. He was born in the town of Knox, near Brantwood, WI, however lived his entire life in Minocqua. He graduated from both Minocqua Grade School and Minocqua High School then in the same building which is now our town community center. Married to Velma for 52 years. Together they had 3 children, 2 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren (plus another great grandchild on the way). Bill and Velma were both local business owners, enjoyed travel in their retirement years to California, Arizona and Florida and always included their children and grandchildren in everything they did. Children: Sandra (& Mike) Trapp, Gary Niemi and Greg (& Wendy) Niemi. Grandchildren: Ryan (& Michelle) Trapp and Stacy (& Scott) Walworth. Great Grandchildren: Zoe, Vivian, Ava & Quincey Trapp. Kaiden and Brayden Walworth. Preceded in death by his wife Velma, father Ernest, mother Martha and brother Eugene. Bill served both our country and our community. He served in the Navy during WWII and Korean wars. Bill owned Minocqua Auto Service, the Hudson, Nash, Rambler, AMC car and International truck dealership. Velma, and daughter Sandy, owned Vacationland Togs, Village Original's and Ryan's Lunchbox all of which were on the main street of Minocqua. Bill was active all his life in the local Legion post (past commander), the Fire Dept. (past Assistant Chief & Fire Inspector) and was instrumental in the founding of the Rescue Squad (he was also filmed in the national training film "Before the Emergency"). He loved to tell stories of his times "back in the day". He loved the Minocqua area. But he really loved his family. He was always surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. What we know is it takes a village to raise a child. What we have also learned is that it takes a community to care for an elder. We thank you for watching over our dad, Bill, and know he is reunited with our mother and is now watching over all of us. The memorial service will be held at Bolger Funeral Home - Minocqua Chapel on Friday, February 17th. Visitation with family and friends beforehand from 4:30 to 5:30, brief memorial service 5:30 to 6:00 and reception to immediately follow. On-line condolences may be shared with the family at www.bolgerfuneral.com. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Bill Niemi Memorial Fund, c/o U.S. Bank, P.O. Box, 787, 401 Oneida Street, Minocqua, WI 54548. Proceeds from this fund will be given to Bill's favorite organizations of Howard Young Medical Center, the American Legion Post 89, Minocqua Fire Department / Rescue Squad and other local community based organizations.