Bill Zirkle

William "Bill" Zirkle, 85, of Antigo died Friday at Eastview Medical and Rehabilitation Center. Mr. Zirkle was born February 12, 1924 to the late Irvin and Mary (Weiderman) Zirkle. On June 27, 1953 he married Elaine Draeger in Deerbrook and she survives. A lifelong resident of Langlade County, Mr. Zirkle worked in logging, milk hauling, and as a mechanic for Case, and Antigo Canning Company, he also owned and operated Bill's Supergas. He served in the US Army in WWII.His many enjoyments included playing cards, hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors and at his land. He had a green thumb and was able to grow amazingly large pumpkins and carrots and was also known for is delicious yellow raspberries. It was always his pleasure to share his produce. He was a talented musician, playing many instruments and writing songs. Known as "Unlce Bill" to friends and family, he was always there to take care of others and had a very big heart.Survivors include a daughter Susan (Paul) Laycock of Antigo; a son Bill Zirkle of Antigo, 5 grandchildren Kelly (Sean) Luoma, Mike Zirkle, Chris (Kathy) Rine, Shawn (Melanie) Rine, and Jim (Jo) Laycock; 3 great grandchildren Evan Rine, Gage Luoma, and Alaina Laycock; 4 step grandchildren Craig, Justin, April, and Emily Laycock. In addition to his parents, Mr. Zirkle was preceded in death by a son Robert Zirkle, 5 sisters, Della Ullman, Lucille Mosher, Jeanette Mosher, Jenny Mosher, and Hester Wildman; and 1 brother Fritz Zirkle.In tears we watched him suffer, We watched him fade away, Our hearts were almost broken, He fought so hard to stay. But when we saw him sleeping, So peaceful free from pain, We could not wish him back, To suffer that again. Lord, keep your arms around him, And in your loving care, Make up for all he suffered, And all that seemed unfair. It broke our hearts to lose him, But he did not go alone, For part of us went with him, The day God called him home.