William E. Ishmael

William E. Ishmael, 82, of Monmouth, IL, passed away at 10:34 p.m., Monday, May 22, 2023 at his home. 

He was born on November 1, 1940 in Monmouth, IL, the son of Louis E. and Mary G. (Barry) Ishmael.  Bill was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1958. 

Bill served in the United States Army for 3 years from 1967-1970 during the Vietnam War.

He married Sharon Bailey on October 7, 1972 in Monmouth, IL; she survives. 

Bill worked at Wells Pet Food for over 15 years.  He later worked at the Monmouth V.F.W Hall as the janitor.  Bill was a LA Dodgers, Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeye, and Boston Celtics fan.  He enjoyed watching NASCAR races.  Bill was a lifetime member of the J.W. Clendenin V.F.W. Post 2301 in Monmouth.    

Surviving Bill is his wife, Sharon Ishmael of Monmouth, IL; his children, Mary Sue (Carl) Sage of Monmouth, IL, David of Colorado, Kim (Brad) Newhard of Iowa, Kevin Koller of Monmouth, IL; his grandchildren, Jamie Tapscott, Jenna Koller, Donavon Cummins, Jessica Koller; several great grandchildren; three brothers, Dean (Phyllis) Ishmael, Ed Ishmael, Richard Ishmael; one sister, Martha (Butch) Crain; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Kirk Koller; his brother, Raymond Ishmael; one sister, Liz Gudeman; and one grandson, Dusty Koller. 

A gathering of family & friends will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday, June 1, 2023 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL.  Military Honors will be presented at 6:45 p.m. at the funeral home.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Memorials can be made to the William Ishmael Memorial Fund.   McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.  

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