- Date Of Birth: November 11, 1935
- Date Of Death: November 19, 2020
- State: Illinois
William E. Gretencord, 85, of Ottawa, died peacefully at home with his loved ones at his side on Thursday, November 19, 2020. William was born on November 11, 1935, in Ottawa to Edward J. “Eddie” and Helen (Weisbrock) Gretencord. Bill was a Notre Dame Football fan from the time he was a child, with Notre Dame quarterback and 1947 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Lujack being his first football hero. He played football at Marquette High School, graduating in 1954, He attended Illinois State University and attended Northwest College, where he played football and played again later while in the US Army.
Bill owned and operated Gretencord Insurance Agency for 45 years. Never shy, he was a social person who loved social events and meeting new people, and spending time with friends. He was a great father to his kids and step-children and loved being a grand-parent. He became married again later in life to Jean Blume, and they enjoyed much happiness together in his final years. Bill loved life and wanted success and happiness for others as well. He was a member of St. Columba Church and the Marquette Academy Go Club.
He is survived by his wife Jean, a son, Matt (Kari) Gretencord, of Ottawa, five daughters, Sloan Gretencord, of Chicago, Brooke Sweeden, of Ottawa, Amber (Josh) Kennedy, of Atlanta, GA, Shawn (Corey) Hampton, of Atlanta, GA, and Nancy (Bill) Tippett, of Camp Verde, AZ, 11 grandchildren, and a sister Maryann Hardy, of Mesa AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Jean Roth.
.
