William Taylor

HOMER - It is with deep love and gratitude that the family of William Roger Taylor announces his passing.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and proud veteran, William's life was defined by hard work, service and a steadfast commitment to his community.

William was born on Jan. 11, 1935, to William Edward Hall Taylor and Arabelle (McCormick) Taylor, on the Coffeen Farm just west of Homer, where his father worked as a tenant farmer. As an only child, he grew up learning the value of responsibility, self-reliance and the rewards of honest labor - principles that guided him throughout his life.

At the age of 17, William enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952. He was stationed in Panama, where he served honorably as a sea plane rescue specialist. His four years of service reflected his courage and dedication, values he would carry into civilian life and instill in those around him.

Upon returning home to Homer, William married Orthalyne J. Wienke in 1957. With the help and support of both the Wienke and Taylor families, the couple built their first home together - a symbol of their shared determination and enduring partnership.

They were blessed with two children, Kelley M. Bensley, born in 1959, and Brian R. Taylor, born in 1962.

William and Orthalyne owned and operated Wienke & Taylor Cleaners and managed two laundromats, one in Homer and another in St. Joseph. Later, William began a long and rewarding career with Kraft Foods, where he worked as a mechanic for 25 years. After retiring from Kraft Foods, he returned to work as a general maintenance employee at Fox Development, where he worked for an additional 15 years.

Deeply rooted in the Homer community, William gave his time and energy to countless civic and charitable causes.

He served as president of the Champaign County Sportsman Club, where he played a pivotal role in lobbying for the creation of the Homer Lake Forest Preserve.

He dedicated 20 years as a Homer volunteer firefighter and served on both the Homer Village Board and the Homer School Board.

As a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Broadlands, he was an active Sunday school teacher, trustee and member of the Board of Lay Ministry.

William's passion for youth and local sports was evident in his leadership as president of the Homer High School Booster Club, where he was instrumental in developing the football field lighting and crow's nest projects. He also coached Little League and supported Cub Scouts, shaping the lives of many young people through his mentorship and example.

An avid outdoorsman, William found joy and peace in fishing - a passion that led him to win several local tournaments. He took pride in crafting his own jigs and lures during the winter months, a reflection of both his creativity and patience.

He was also an expert marksman, renowned for his precision with a rifle. Friends often marveled at his ability to flip a coin into the air and hit it mid-flight. Local farmers relied on his skill to manage groundhogs, foxes and other pests.

Above all, William will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and proud grandfather.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Orthalyne; their children, Kelley (Brett) Bensley and Brian (Monica) Taylor; five beloved grandchildren, Kirsten Place, Emma Webb, John Taylor, Bryanna Bensley and Ryan Bensley; and six great-grandchildren, who will miss him dearly.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Broadlands, with Pastor Jason Braaten officiating. Burial will follow at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. There will be a visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. prior to the service at church. After the burial, light refreshments will be served in the Fellowship Hall.

Homer Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends to honor William's memory through acts of service or donations to the Homer Fire Department or Immanuel Lutheran Church of Broadlands.