William Gene Wiedenbeck

I have the honor of knowing Bill for more than twenty years through the New Horizons band. Not only did he share his musical talents with us, but through his action and connections, New Horizons has had the opportunity to hold an annual band camp at the extraordinary Bjorklunden campus along the Door County shore line for nearly 20 years. It was also my pleasure to spend many happy hours with him Apres-band where he regaled us with his wit and his stories while sipping his special cocktail. His talent, kindness and presence will be greatly missed. On behalf of all the members of the New Horizons band, I offer our deepest condolences, Lynda Wright President, Hooked on Bands

Debra, I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.

On behalf of the Badger Honor Flight Board and all our volunteers, we extend our deepest condolences to you all, the family of William Wiedenbeck. We are forever grateful for his service to our great country. What an honor it was for us to take him on his well-deserved trip of a lifetime. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

I cannot say, and I will not say That he is dead- . He is just away! With a cheery smile, and a wave of the hand He has wandered into an unknown land, And left us dreaming how very fair It needs must be, since he lingers there. And you- O you, who the wildest yearn For the old-time step and the glad return- , Think of him faring on, as dear In the love of There as the love of Here; And loyal still, as he gave the blows Of his warrior-strength to his country’s foes- . Mild and gentle, as he was brave- , When the sweetest love of his life he gave To simple things- : Where the violets grew Blue as the eyes they were likened to, The touches of his hands have strayed As reverently as his lips have prayed: When the little brown thrush that harshly chirred Was dear to him as the mocking-bird; And he pitied as much as a man in pain A writhing honey-bee wet with rain- . Think of him still as the same, I say: He is not dead- he is just away! James Whitcomb Riley

I had the pleasure of working with Bill at the DOT until his retirement. Bill was my direct supervisor and I am thankful for the opportunities he gave to me, as well as the many lessons and skills learned from him. He truly had a big impact on my career. I am so happy to hear that he lived a full vibrant retirement. My deep condolences. Tim Stoikes