William L. Thacker

William L. “Bill” Thacker, age 73 of Joliet, passed away peacefully at Lightways (Joliet) Hospice with his family by his side on Saturday February 5, 2022.

Bill was born to the late Margaret (Lee) and Joseph Thacker in Joliet, where he was raised and spent his life. He was the purchasing manager for maintenance and retired from Lewis University in 2010. He enjoyed golf for many years and loved camping at New Lenox Sportsmen’s Club, where he and his family had been members since 1976. He grew up in the St. Pat’s area of Joliet, where he attended grade school and graduated in 1967 from Joliet Central High School. He was a life-long Chicago Sports fan, a lover of the Cubs and the Bears. 

He will always be remembered as a devoted Husband, Dad, Papa, Brother-in-Law, and Friend to many. He was a tough, sarcastic, funny man with a soft heart, especially when it came to his granddaughters.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Jean (nee Frank); his daughter Stacy (Chad) Eighner of Wilmington, IL and his granddaughters Paige and Holly Eighner. He is also survived by his brother-in-law James (Patricia) Frank of Lemont, sister-in-law Cathy Eartly of Joliet, and sister-in-law Nancy (Harold) Langley of Lakeland, FL., as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many special family friends. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the doctors and nurses who cared for him during his illness and to Lightways (Joliet Area) Hospice for the excellent care and comfort they provided.

He is preceded in death by his parents, twin sister Susan, and brother Robert Thacker.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday February 10, 2022 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Joliet at 11:00 a.m.    Per Bill’s request, cremation rites will be accorded.   Visitation Thursday morning 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home.    In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Lightways (Joliet Area) Hospice would be greatly appreciated.