William A. “Bill” Struve, 90, of Cary, Ill., passed away Tuesday, 21 May 2013, at home. He is survived by his three daughters, one son, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Bill was born 22 Nov. 1922 in Chicago. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and visited many foreign ports during his tour of duty. After his service, he remained an avid sailor, boater and boat builder. He had been retired from Illinois Bell/AT&T for more than 30 years.
Bill had been a member of the Chain-O-Lakes Sail & Power Squadron since its inception in 1962 and remained a member for 42 years of the squadron’s 50 years. His family vacations usually involved boating of some sort. Bill was the squadron commander in 1978 and held other positions at the squadron level. The past six years Bill was the flag lieutenant and was always on time at the formal events setting up the flags and leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Bill was also a member of the Blackhawk Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society (Lake Geneva) as well as the Lake Pepin (Mississippi River) Messabout Boat Club. He traveled near and far in order to boat and snowmobile. His last project was completed last year, at the age of 89, for the Messabout club gathering in June.
Bill always had time to take someone boating or help with teaching knot tying. He had a very casual attitude and enjoyed sharing his boating experiences. He will be greatly missed.
