William "Bill" Utnehmer

William “Bill” Utnehmer, 95, of Antigo, WI passed away Friday, August 14, 2026.

He was born in Antigo on December 26, 1930, son of Erwin and Ella Utnehmer. Bill graduated from Antigo High School in 1948, served in the United States Navy after high school, and retired from the Langlade County Highway Department after a forty-year career.

He married Patricia “Pat” Mulligan in Antigo in 1950 and later, Rita Crum, both of whom passed away in 2019.

Bill and Pat Utnehmer had seven children: Roger (Karen), Mary Gwen, Jean Brandt, Jane , Patrick (Bonnie) and William (Marie Claire). A daughter, Peggy, died in 1979. Bill is also survived by step children and long-time family friend, surrogate daughter, and care-provider Sue Gallenberg.

Grandchildren include Jay, Nikki, Fred, Bill, Ryan, Taylor, Garrett, Coral and Aubrie. Great-grandchildren are Wesley, Owen, Laine, Theodore, James, Sonny, Levi, Remi and Hayes,

In addition to his parents, a brother, Dick, and sister, Helene, also preceded him in death.

Bill was an avid golfer, out-driving two sons just weeks before his passing. He was a long-time member of the Antigo Men’s Chorus, taking great pride in spreading the joy of music throughout the community.

Bill also was proud of driving throughout Langlade County pointing out roads where his surveying skills determined grade elevations and property lines.

In retirement, Bill traveled thousands of miles in the Northwoods installing Life Line alert systems as a volunteer with the Langlade County Memorial Hospital.

He often shared that his greatest accomplishment was his children, children to whom he gave the gift of life and who then lived their lives of gift. He gave them gifts of self-confidence, independence, accomplishment, and expression.

Bill and Rita were world travelers, visiting countries throughout Europe, Central and South America. Together they exemplified Mark Twain’s assessment of the value of travel saying “travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.”

He lived his life committed to social justice, the value of labor unions and Progressive politics. Bill often attributed the ability to educate his children to his early membership in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees union.

To say people looked “up” to Bill Utnehmer embodies much more than his 6’5” stature. He was admired for his volunteer service, community engagement, welcoming all, and respecting diversity.

A memorial service for Bill Utnehmer is scheduled for 3pm, Sunday, September 6, 2026 at the Strasser Roller Funeral Home in Antigo, WI. His favorite beer will be provided.