William Wykoski
William George Wykoski, lovingly known to many simply as “Bill,” passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, at his home in Three Lakes, Wisconsin. He was 72 years old.
Born on November 25, 1952, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Bill was the beloved son of Steve William Wykoski and Marjorie Davies. Growing up in the Northwoods, he developed a lifelong appreciation for history, craftsmanship, and good storytelling — passions that would follow him throughout his life.
Bill shared a close bond with his brother, Steve “Skeeter” Wykoski, and his sister-in-law, Diane Sorge. He was a proud father to his son, William George Wykoski Valdez, who carries forward his legacy.
Family was everything to Bill. He is survived by a wide and loving circle of cousins: Bobbe Hildebrand, Steve Hildebrand, Robert Hildebrand, Annie Hildebrand Knill, Victoria Arden, Ethan Arden, Colin Arden, Greg Klein, Chi Klein, Grayson Klein, Heidi Juiris, Jake Juiris, McKenzie Juiris, Sarah Wykowski, Niki Wykowski Armstrong, Paul DeMars, Donald Gutowski, Will Lund and cousin Betty.
Throughout his life, Bill dedicated himself to his career at Sons Enterprises. Away from work, he found joy in collecting — old cars, old coins, and old guns — each piece telling its own story, just like he loved to do.
Those who knew Bill will remember him first and foremost as a jokester and a storyteller. He lived each day with a smile, a clever quip, and a tale ready to be told. His gift for spinning a story — whether funny, profound, or a little bit of both — could turn an ordinary afternoon into an unforgettable memory. In many ways, Bill’s life itself was a story well lived, stitched together with laughter, family, adventure, and heart.
As we gather to honor his memory, we know that the stories he shared — and the ones we share about him — will keep his spirit alive for generations to come.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 4pm on June 14th at the American Legion in Three Lakes Wisconsin.
In the meantime, the family invites all who knew and loved him to raise a glass, share a story, and smile — just as Bill would have wanted.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com PAID OBITUARY
