William E. "Bill" Ruechel, age 92, of Shawano, passed away on Friday, November 5, 2021. He was born in the town of Lessor on July 16, 1929, to the late William A. and Marie (Raether) Ruechel. Bill married the love of his life Gertrude L. Schultz on August 19, 1950, Gertrude preceded him in death on January 15, 2019. Bill loved to help many of the local families as their personal representative and guardian. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and was a member of many organizations including being the treasurer and financial secretary of the building committee and endowment committee. He was active on the school board and was also a past member of the Shawano Lions, Shawano Jaycees, Shawano Historical Society, and received the citizen of the year award.  He retired from Citizen's Bank as senior vice president.

Bill is survived by: his children David W. (Vicki) Ruechel, of Battlement Mesa CO, and Donald L. (Janice) Ruechel, of Appleton; his grandchildren Brian (Kelly), Blake (Jennifer), Elizabeth, Alexandria (Steve); his great-grandchildren Asher, Pierce, and William "Will"; his brother Jerald (Carol), of Appleton; his dog and best friend Ruby He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by: his wife Gertrude; his parents; and his brother Raymond.

A funeral service for Bill will be held at St. James Lutheran Church at 11:00am on Friday November 12, 2021, with Rev. Mark Drengler and Rev. Steve Schauder officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday from 9:30 am until the time of the service. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery following services.