- Date Of Birth: July 5, 1947
- Date Of Death: January 20, 2022
- State: Wisconsin
William Earl Spaulding, Sr., age 74, of the Township of Saratoga, Wisconsin passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 20, 2022.
William was born on July 5, 1947 in Wisconsin Rapids to Norman and Vila (Forsythe) Spaulding. He was united in marriage to Annette (Slinkman) Spaulding on April 16, 1988 in Wisconsin Rapids.
He is survived by his wife: Annette; children: Dan (Dawn) Spaulding, William Jr. (Jean) Spaulding; step-son: John Joling; grandchildren: Rachel (Kurt) Blanchard, Bradley Grover and Laura, Abigail Spaulding and Jesse, Kaleigh Spaulding, Dan Jr. Spaulding and Cassidy, Ashlyn Stickney and David; great-grandchildren: Elisha Blanchard, Evan Blanchard, Laela Arndt, Emmelia Grover, James Grover, Olivia Grover and bonus great-grandson Hayden Arndt; sibling: Brenda (James) Hall, and dear nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-laws. William was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Robert; sister-in-law: Donna Spaulding; his grandparents; and brother-in-law: Stanley Slinkman.
Bill was very proud of his gun collection. He owned some originals and some remakes. He was a talented gunsmith and for 15 years he was the owner/operator of Rapid Shooters Supply. During his professional career, he was a tow motor mechanic at the Port Edwards Paper Mill.
He and his wife Annette enjoyed a beautiful 34-year marriage before he passed away. The marital love, devotion, and commitment to each other that they shared is something that is rarely ever seen these days.
Bill and Annette enjoyed camping and had a permanent campsite at Ridgewood Campground. Many parties and get-togethers were held at their campsite and no one will forget “Captain Bill” on his pontoon boat where endless hours were spent cruising the river, fishing, and just having fun.
Bill loved music and back in their early days he and Annette spent many hours rocking and rolling with Rockin’ Eddy at David Harold’s. Two of his favorite songs were “All I Need is the Air that I Breath” by the Hollies and “Old Time Rock and Roll” by Bob Seger. He also loved WWII and western movies and books.
He had many friends throughout his life but his two best friends were the Late-Great Bob Henke, and Dale Pankratz. Friends and relatives will miss Bill’s quick wit, humor, and positive outlook on life. He loved his family and they all loved him. He will be missed by all who knew him.
A special thank you goes out to Polly Gruetzmacher for her loving care and assistance.
