After a brief unexpected diagnosis of cancer William 'Billy' Patrick Willman, age 58, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, after a courageous battle with an incurable form of cancer, surrounded by close friends and family.

Billy was born on November 6, 1967, in Racine, Wisconsin, to his father, Shuff Willman, and his loving mother, Patricia (Pat Ouweneel) Willman. He was raised in Door County during his childhood before returning to the Milwaukee and Racine areas, where he spent most of his life.

Bill lived his life day by day and was a true example of what it means to live in the moment, because you never know what tomorrow holds. His love for sailing, the ocean, and the Great Lakes were where he chose to spend his time, along with rock concerts and listening to his favorite bands. Bill had a song for everything and could always be found somewhere on a boat. Billy was a dedicated boat captain for Twin Disc, building a life and career on the water he loved so much. His most recent job on the Double Clutch kept him close by, and he would often pass friends and family up and down the Milwaukee River.

Bill is survived by his mother, Patricia Willman; his sister, Elizabeth; his beloved therapy dog niece, Zara; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins on both the Willman and Ouweneel sides.

He was preceded in death by his father, Shuff, and his grandparents from both sides of the family.

At this time, there will be no formal service. The family will arrange a celebration of life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for donations in William's honor be made to the UWM Foundation in support of the School of Freshwater Sciences at http://uwmfoundation.org/willman , or by check payable to "UWM Foundation, Inc." Please include " Friends of Water – 3702 " or " School of Freshwater Sciences " in the memo line and mail to UWM Foundation, 1440 E North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211.

Billy will be remembered for his free spirit, his love of music and water, and his ability to remind everyone around him to cherish the present moment.

As Billy would say, "Ease out the sheets, and we sail from here."

Service Details

A Celebration of Life will take place on September 12th at the Milwaukee Yacht Club from 1:00-4:00 p.m.