Bill J. Anderson, 91, of Milan, Illinois, peacefully passed away at his home surrounded by family on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Born on August 28, 1934, in Livonia, Missouri, to Ardie and Jettie (Minear) Anderson, Bill spent his life dedicated to his work and family. His contributions to the construction industry, particularly as a co-owner of General Asphalt Construction Company founded in 1977, are a testament to his hardworking spirit and tenacity. 

Bill's journey of love began when he married Teresa Mira of Bellevue, Ohio on March 23, 1955. Although their time together was cut short by her untimely passing, he would soon find love again with Charlene Connelly, whom he married on December 29, 1957, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Together, they nurtured a family of four: Jeanie, Sonja, Jamie, and Chuck.

 Bill was a proud lifetime member of the International Union of Operating Engineers since 1952, he enjoyed running heavy equipment as well as tending to his farm, garden and yard, activities that reflected his dedication to hard work and love for the outdoors. His warmth, wisdom, and generous heart will be profoundly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Charlene, and his cherished children; Jeanie (Al) Heap, Sonja (Jim) Boever, Jamie (Mike) Wardlow, and Chuck Anderson. Bill was also deeply proud of his 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild, who brought him immense joy and happiness. Bill is preceded in death by his father, his mother, his brother Richard Anderson, his sister Martha (Bob) Hall, and his first wife Teresa. 

To honor Bill's life, family and friends will gather for a funeral service on Saturday, July 11, 2026, beginning with a visitation at 10:30 AM, immediately followed by a service at 12:00 PM at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home in Milan, Illinois. Following the service, Bill will be laid to rest at Preemption Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Bill's family to be donated to St. Jude and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, honoring his spirit of giving and kindness. His warmth, wisdom, and generous heart will be profoundly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.