IL SR1281

Illinois Senate mourns the death of William "Bill" Ahrenkiel of Athens, who passed away on July 5, 2020.

Born January 24, 1926, Ahrenkiel was a U.S. Navy veteran who served on a destroyer escort during World War II and participated in the Battle of the North Atlantic, then served two years in the Army during the Korean War.

Worked for the State of Illinois as a driver's license examiner, with the park service, and with the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Known for his fishing and hunting expertise, including acclaimed collections of duck decoys, duck calls, and fishing lures, and for raising and training hunting dogs.

Survived by his brother Richard Ahrenkiel, five nephews, one niece, and numerous grandnephews and grandnieces.