William Sr. Hillier

William Hillier, Sr., 78, of Galesburg, died at 5:36 a.m. Monday, April 26, 2010 at Cottage Hospital Galesburg. Bill was born on March 23, 1932 in Streator, the son of George and Delores Barnwell Hillier.  He married Marianne Kremer on June 22, 1950 in Rock Island.  Surviving Bill is his wife of almost 60 years, Marianne of Galesburg; 3 sons, Tom (Charlene) of Knoxville, William, Jr. (Tish Richards) of Oneida, and Tab (Leslie) of Fairview; 2 daughters, Anne (Tim) Dowers and Vicki (Lindsey) May both of Galesburg; and 2 brothers, George (Sandra) of Galesburg and Mick Hillier of New Port Richey, FL.  Also surviving are 24 grandchildren and 49 great grandchildren with whom he loved spending time with.  Bill was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Doranne Cowan. Bill attended Galesburg High School where he was well known as an outstanding athlete, playing baseball, basketball, and football.  He worked in construction for many years, and was a member of Laborers Local #538 where he worked as the business agent for 14 years.  After retirement he owned and operated the 4L Plaza Laundromat for 16 years.  Bill enjoyed all types of sports. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 29, 2010 at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg, with Msgr. Ernest Pizzamiglio officiating.  No visitation is planned.  Memorials may be made to the Knoxville High School Track Fund.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Funeral Home, Galesburg.