William "Bill" J. Ham

May 1, 1930 - June 12, 2013

William “Bill” J. Ham, Sr., age 83, of Marion, IL, passed away suddenly at 3:10 p.m., on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, in Heartland Regional Medical Center of Marion, IL. He was born in Eldorado, IL on Thursday, May 1, 1930, the son of Roy E. and Katherine (Wright) Ham. Bill attended school in Eldorado and was a graduate of Eldorado High School. He was united in marriage to Vivian Ruth Boles on Thursday, December 24, 1953, in Marion, IL and together they have shared nearly sixty years of marriage. Bill was a lifelong resident of Southern Illinois and was a career carpenter. He retired in 1991, as Business Agent for the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners Local Union No. 638. In his spare time he enjoyed spending time outdoors, taking walks, woodworking and vegetable gardening. He loved his family and enjoyed the many times they all would gather together. Now those who are left behind will cherish the many memories that have been created. He is survived by his wife, Vivian R. Ham of Marion, IL; two sons and daughters-in-law, William “Billy” J. Ham, Jr. and his wife, Pam (Richmond) of Marion, IL and David R. Ham and his wife, Renee (Anderson) of Menomonee Falls, WI; grandson, Robert “Rob” J. Ham of Marion, IL; great granddaughter, Jasmine Richmond of Marion, IL, other extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Fernetta Gilbert who lived in Paris, IL and Mary Bean who lived in Eldorado, IL. Arrangements for William J. Ham, Sr. were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court St., Marion, IL. The time of visitation for family and friends was on Sunday, June 16, 2013, between the hours of 12:00 noon and 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Following the time of visitation the funeral service was at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Rick Pierce presiding. Comments of memory were presented by Bill’s son, David Ham. The prelude and postlude musical selections were recorded piano selections. Special recorded vocal musical selections presented during the service were “Amazing Grace” by Susan Boyle & “I’ll Fly Away” by Allison Krauss & Gillian Welch. Private family interment took place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2013, with Rev. Rick Pierce presiding, at Maplewood Cemetery of Marion, IL. For additional information please contact the funeral home by calling 618-993-2131.