William "Bill" Welk

William “Bill” Edward Welk passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. He was born in Marshfield, Wisconsin on June 10, 1939, and moved to Westby in 1966, where he has resided ever since. Affectionally known by his friends as “Billy”, “Wonka” and “Hopeless”, he managed the Westby Rod & Gun Club for nearly 45 years and touched many lives with his love of nature, conservation, sports, and unique sense of humor. Bill loved everything about hunting and fishing and was a pioneer in raising and releasing turkeys, pheasants, and trout throughout the county and surrounding area. He was also instrumental in trout habitat improvement efforts and restoration projects for degraded streams throughout Vernon County, shaping the nation's first watershed protection program. Bill taught Hunter Safety courses to educate kids well into his 70s. He loved birds and enjoyed building and donating birdhouses. Bill is survived by his current wife of 42 years, Louise Ann Welk; his former wife, Caroline Hagen; son, Charles; daughter, Cara; granddaughter, Brittney Devore; and two grandsons, Jeager and Rorick; stepdaughters, Laura Brueggen, Paula Sanchez, Sarah Erickson; and stepson, John Ripley. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, George & Leona Welk; brothers, Charles, Donald, and Jim; sisters, Shirley, Ardene, and Geraldine, sons, Christopher and Shaun Welk; and stepson, Larry Ripley. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2022, from 1 PM to 4 PM at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com. Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Bill's family. 708 S. Main Street Westby, WI 54667 608-634-2100