William Sann

William John Sann, 90, a proud lifelong resident of Phelps, WI, passed away on July 24, 2024 at Cedar Creek Manor in Mosinee, Wisconsin. Bill was born in Phelps, WI on May 11, 1934 to Charles and Elma (Volkmann) Sann.
Bill graduated from Phelps High School. He proudly served in the United States Army and was stationed at Ft. Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma and Ft. Bliss in El Paso, Texas. Upon his honorable discharge, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves for several years. He often spoke about his time in the military, looking back at the window of his life, away from Phelps.
Through his working career, he was able to see other parts of the Midwest while driving truck for Christiansen's (Sylvan) and Four Seasons. Those who knew Bill, can recall many stories he told about those experiences, and the things he learned through his travels. He also worked at the Phelps Pallet Plant and for several resorts in the Phelps area.
In September of 1968, he married Lena (DePaoli) at St. Cecelia Church in Caspian, Michigan.
They resided in Phelps, throughout their marriage of 34 years until her death in 2003. Bill was a loving husband that cared for Lena through difficult health circumstances, through the years.
The spirit of service to others was an important part of Bill's life. He served the Phelps community for 38 years as a Volunteer Fireman and for a period of time as Assistant Fire Chief. As an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church, he served as an Usher and groundskeeper for many years.
Bill is survived by nephews Mike (Mary) Holmi of Battle Creek, Michigan, Steve (the late Myra) Holmi of Lansing, Michigan, Robert (Karen) Schultz of Wausau, Jack (Roberta) Swanson of Elroy and nieces Charlotte (Jim) Kuehni of DePere and Nancy Allen and Jean Swanson of Wausau, as well as several great nieces & nephews, cousins and other relatives. In addition, he is survived by his special friend Vonnie Shauger and many other wonderful people in Phelps and St. Mary Church. Through all their caring efforts and kind gestures, he was able to remain at his home, in the town he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.
A funeral service to will be at 11am on Wednesday July 31, 2024 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Phelps, WI with Fr. Ron Serraro officiating. Visitation to be held 1 hour prior to service. Burial to follow at Phelps Cemetery.