William “Billy” R. Klade Jr., age 62, formerly of Merrill, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, at his sister’s house in Genoa City, WI, while under the care of Aurora at Home Hospice. He was born on June 9, 1961 to the late William and Barbara (Euler) Klade Sr. in Merrill. Billy attended and graduated from Badger High School in Lake Geneva, WI.
Billy was a kind, happy and fun-loving person, who always had a quick and witty comeback! He loved working at Walmart in Merrill, being the friendly face when you would walk in the doors and helping out wherever he could. Billy was a dedicated employee for Walmart for many years and he got to know so many people. When he wasn’t working, he would enjoy working out in his flower gardens, looking at antique cars, or indulging in some of his favorites; ice cream and doughnuts. Billy enjoyed watching MASH, collecting Canadian Loon items, listening to the Statler brothers, chatting about the weather or playing with his favorite cat, Dolly. He was a member at Bible Presbyterian Church in Merrill. Billy and his infectious smile will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.
Billy is survived by his sisters: Liane (Mark) Katezenberg and Deena (Tim) Rathbun, brother: Justin (JoAnn) Klade, nieces and nephews: Daniel (Jacqueline) Katzenberg, Lindsey (Ken) Roth, Michael (RaeAnne) Rathbun, Tiffany (Ken) Tupa, RJ (Samantha) Klade and Christi (Seth) Sczygelski, many great nieces and nephews and numerous other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents and a great nephew.
The funeral service for Billy will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Michael Southcombe will officiate. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home, and again on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Burial at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations be made to the Lincoln County Humane Society in memory of Billy. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.