Bill Kernen, age 66 died unexpectedly at his home in Belleville on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.  He was born on January 9, 1958 at St. Clare Hospital in Monroe, WI to his parents Clarence and Phyllis (Crawford) Kernen.  Bill grew up in rural New Glarus on the family farm at the corner of Farmer's Grove Rd. and County J.  His early years centered around farm life, 4H, visiting grandparents in Monroe and aunts & uncles farms around the area, and being a farm kid with his siblings Jeff, Chris, Bob, and Mary.  Bill was a smiley, freckled face kid with sandy colored hair.  Everyone loved "Billy" as he was known.  He graduated from New Glarus High School in 1976 and continued his education at Edgewood College earning a degree in education.  Bill enjoyed many solo vacations out West, and especially enjoyed visiting national parks and hiking their trails.  Over the years Bill did extensive bicycle trips and ran marathons including the Boston Marathon.  Bill loved to visit local establishments and visiting with his friends who he considered part of this family.  Bill taught in the Belleville School District for many years.  He also coached many youth sports and was a mentor to many kids especially those that were part of the cross-country team.  After retiring from teaching, he began working at Duluth Trading in both Belleville and Mount Horeb until his recent retirement last year.  Bill was excited for the opportunities to travel and explore in retirement, however health challenges arose.

Bill is survived by his siblings Chris (Butch) Kiesz, Mary (Randy) Statz, and Bob Kernen, nieces and nephews Sara (Jason Oppliger) Kiesz, Katie (Doug) Sichmeller, Carla (fiancé Mykel Fredricks) Statz, Jamie Statz, Fonda Lewis, Hannah Klassy, Nick Kernen, Ben Kernen, Jessica (Jens) Haensch, Jacob (Jessica) Kernen, and Matthew Kernen, and many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents John & Hilda Kernen, Sherman Crawford, Harry & Hannah Feldt, parents Clarence & Phyllis Kernen, and brother Jeff Kernen.

A casual gathering of family and friends will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Borlands, 119 W. Main St., Belleville, WI.

The Becker-Beal Funeral Home of Belleville is assisting the family.

A memorial fund has been established.