William R. Bycroft, 92, of Galesburg, died at 5:15 p.m. Friday, July 12, 2019 at Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville.
Bill was born January 20, 1927 in Roseville, the son of Clarence H. and Susannah (McKelvey) Bycroft, Sr. He married Ileen McCoy on June 7, 1947. She preceded him in death on September 10, 2008. Bill is survived by three sons, Donald (Tanya) of Dubuque, IA, Rodger (Kathy) of Galesburg, and Ted (Sherri) of Des Moines, IA; one daughter, Martha (Terry) Hart of Liberty, MO; ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Along with his parents and wife, Bill was preceded in death by one brother and two sisters.
Bill was the assistant manager at Warren County FS for several years prior to purchasing Central Butane Gas Co. in 1969. He operated the gas company for 17 years until he retired in 1986. Bill was an active member of A.F.&A.M. Alpha Lodge #155 in Galesburg, Scottish Rite, and Mohammed Shine. Bill was a Shriner clown for several years, known as “Billo.” Bill enjoyed working with his hands, from tending to his yard to woodworking.
Visitation will be 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will follow at 3 p.m. Rev. Jim Oliver will officiate. Burial will follow in East Linwood Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be directed to the Shiner’s Hospital Burn Center. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
