William J. Moerchen, 91, of Swansea, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, March 25, 2024. He was born on May 25, 1932, and throughout his remarkable life, he touched the hearts of many with his dedication, kindness, and zest for life.
He was a kind, compassionate and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
Bill proudly served his country in the US Air Force, enlisting at the age of 18. As a member of the 159th Troop Carrier Wing, he displayed exemplary courage and was promoted as Airman First class to Corporal, earning the Air Force Commendation Medal for Military Merit for his outstanding service to the General.
A lifelong learner, Bill graduated from St. Teresa grade school and Cathedral High School in 1950, laying the foundation for his future successes. He was deeply involved in his community, particularly as a longstanding member of St. Teresa Parish. Bill had a strong devotion to his catholic faith. His contributions extended to various organizations, including the Rotary Club, Men’s Club, school board, choir, and perpetual adoration. Additionally, he was a valued member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and Elks.
In 1957, Bill married the love of his life, Marilyn Thouvenot, sharing 66 years of unwavering love and devotion. Together, they raised three children, Joseph, Mark, and Lisa, who were the pride and joy of his life. His dedication extended beyond family to his professional endeavors, as a professional land surveyor and member of the Illinois Professional Land Surveyors Association. Bill was an owner at TWM engineering and Geospatial services, Thouvenot Wade and Moerchen, where he played a pivotal role in its growth from three employees to 130, spanning three states.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill found joy in numerous hobbies. From hunting and fishing to photography and birdwatching, he embraced each moment with enthusiasm. He had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening. He took pride in his culinary skills, even winning the Rotary Club chili cook-off. An astute observer of the stock market, he cherished his time with friends in an investment club and coffee club.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Moerchen; his brother, Richard Moerchen; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Roland and Althea Thouvenot; and a sister-in-law, Audrey Johnson.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; three children, Joseph (Jackie Lake), Mark, and Lisa (Michael Hillyer); four grandchildren, William Moerchen, Paul Moerchen, Rachael Hillyer, and Erika Hillyer; his sister, Betty Cerulli; a sister-in-law, Barbara Moerchen; a brother-in-law, Roland Thouvenot; and many dear nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Teresa School in Belleville, IL or to the Belleville/Swansea Moose Lodge 1221. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Bill’s legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 1, 2024, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, and from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Joseph Oganda, Msgr. David Darin, and Fr. James Thomas concelebrating.
Burial with military honors will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.