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October 14, 1958 – Thursday, April 5, 2012

Service Information
Hillcrest United Methodist Church
Saturday, April 21, 2012
2:00 P.M.

Visitation Information

William “Bill” Henry Jess, age 53, of Rockford passed away at his residence on Thursday, April 5, 2012.

He was born on October 14, 1958 in Jefferson, Iowa the son of Fred H. & Velva Mae Hanson Jess.

Bill was formerly employed in the field of computer-automated design and information services.

He loved the out of doors, especially hiking, biking, camping and cooking over an open fire.

Bill enjoyed reading, especially about science, history and aviation.

He was also a skilled baker, carpenter and photographer.

Survived by his brothers and a sister: Richard (Mary) Jess of Hove, England and twin brother: Brian Jess of Honolulu, Hawaii and Margaret (Thomas) Spear of Bloomington; two nieces: Sarah Spear and Kate (Ryan) Grittman; his girlfriend Melissa and long-time, close friend Joe and many other friends and co-workers.

Preceded in death by his parents.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. at Hillcrest United Methodist Church, 9100 Russell Avenue S., in Bloomington.

The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family.

7 Guestbook Entries

  1. Diane Hopkins

    Melissa and all the library staff;
    I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to our community. Bill was a great guy. His special baked goodies will especially be missed at all of the book sales.

    Reply
  2. Joyce Ahlschlager

    May you find peace in the arms of the Lord.

    Reply
  3. Pat and carol Casey

    May you rest in peace, Bill. Our deep sympathy to Melissa and good friend, Joe and family

    Reply
  4. Pat and carol Casey

    May you rest in peace, Bill. Our deep sympathy to Melissa and old friend Joe and family.

    Reply
  5. Gene and Trish Schadewald

    We will miss Bill’s friendly, cheerful
    smile and laughter, at the library.
    We loved his compassion for his cats.
    He built the most awesome, custom built
    cat house with an outside porch on it
    and even a framed picture inside the house. What a sense of humor and of course a heater to keep the cat warm.
    We will miss you, Bill.

    Reply
  6. Val Brown

    Bill will be missed by many people. I remember working with him at Elliott Aviation and what a fun loving fellow he was. Rest in peace Bill.

    Reply
  7. Theresa, Bruce and Melanie Jacobs

    For Melissa;
    Blessings for the good times shared.
    For the laughter and the cooking.
    Blessings for the memories of
    Sushi and mushroom cookies.
    Blessings for His presence in your world.
    He was a comfort to you, and you to him.
    Your shared joy together infected all around.
    But now
    A light has gone out for you, and for him and for us.
    Prayers that with time
    the light of joyful memories
    may be re-found.

    Reply

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