William Heinen

William Heinen, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Marine, Korean War veteran, and barber, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025 at the age of 90, after a long and meaningful life shaped by resilience, faith, and family.
Born April 30, 1935 in Wauwatosa, Bill was the first child of William Henry Heinen and Beatrice Josephine (Couillard) Heinen. Bill attended Holy Angels and St. Leo Catholic Schools in Milwaukee before the family moved to Pigsville in the Menominee River Valley. At 17 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He served honorably and was last stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, completing his service in January 1956. Bill remained proud of his military service and his status as a veteran of the Korean War.
While home on leave, Bill was introduced to the love of his life, Carol Grace Charlier, on a blind date. They were married on February 2, 1957, at St. Gall Catholic Church in Milwaukee. Together, they embarked on a journey of over 68 years of marriage, building a family rooted in Catholic faith, love, and deep devotion. Bill had a lifelong love of jazz music and shared a passion for ballroom dancing with Carol. Whether it was a wedding, church event, or evening at home, the two found joy in dancing together-a reflection of their enduring partnership and rhythm in life.
Bill pursued a career as a barber and later earned a degree in agricultural business. He and Carol made their home in various Wisconsin communities including Appleton, Kaukauna, Neenah, Kewaunee, back to Neenah and finally, the peaceful countryside of Lily, WI.
He was the proud father of nine children, John (Linda), Greg, Jeff (Holly), Irene (Dale), Carolyn, Lynda (Jim), Jacqueline (Nick), Katherine, and Janet. Bill balanced work and family life with remarkable dedication, operating a barbershop, selling milking equipment, and later working in quality control for American Can Company. He also served as a volunteer firefighter, offering his time and service to the community.
After retirement, Bill and Carol settled on their beloved property along the Lily River, which they called "The Lillipad"-a gathering place for family, friends, and generations of memories. Bill was deeply involved in the Catholic Church throughout his life, serving as a Eucharistic minister, volunteering for hospice, and supporting fellow parishioners at St. Mary Catholic Church in Pickerel.
With a passion for carpentry, problem solving and wood working he created a beautiful home for family to enjoy. He also enjoyed fishing-especially trips to Canada-and walking the quiet lanes near his home. He was known for his warm presence, reflective spirit, and memorable sayings. Among his many cherished quotes was one that captured his hopeful outlook: "The best is yet to come."
Bill was proceeded in death by his parents and other beloved family members. He is survived by his wife, Carol; his children; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sisters, Jacqueline Mueller and Colleen Hamilton, and many extended family and friends whose lives were touched by his kindness and strength.
The family would like to sincerely thank Aspirus Home Care and LeRoyer Hospice.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Pickerel on Wednesday, August 13 at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 to 11 a.m. Burial will take place at the parish cemetery immediately following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Mary Catholic Church, N9184 WI-55, Pickerel, WI 54465. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William, please visit our Tree Store.