William H. 'Bill' Willis, 73, Racine Resident and Auto Enthusiast, Dies

The longtime Wisconsin resident was remembered for his dry wit, energy, and willingness to help others.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

William H. "Bill" Willis, a 73-year-old resident of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on March 1, 2026. Willis had previously lived in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Wakefield, Michigan, and worked at American Brass and Braeger Auto Dealership until his retirement. He was known for his love of cars, attending family events, and spending time at the family cabin in Carney, Michigan.

Why it matters

Willis' passing marks the loss of a longtime Wisconsin resident who was active in his community and known for his dedication to his family and passion for automobiles. His obituary provides a glimpse into the life of an ordinary yet remarkable individual who left a lasting impact on those around him.

The details

According to the obituary, Willis was born on March 30, 1952, in Wakefield, Michigan, to William S. and Lilyan (Lehto) Willis. He attended school in Wakefield until 1965, when his family moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin. Willis graduated from Tremper High School in 1971. In 2007, he married Bonnie Brown. After working at American Brass for many years and then Braeger Auto Dealership, Willis retired but continued his love of cars by detailing them for family and friends. He was also a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Racine.

  • Willis was born on March 30, 1952, in Wakefield, Michigan.
  • The Willis family moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin, in 1965.
  • Willis graduated from Tremper High School in Kenosha in 1971.
  • Willis married Bonnie Brown in 2007.
  • Willis passed away on March 1, 2026, at the age of 73.

The players

William H. "Bill" Willis

A 73-year-old resident of Racine, Wisconsin, who previously lived in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Wakefield, Michigan. He worked at American Brass and Braeger Auto Dealership until his retirement and was known for his love of cars, attending family events, and spending time at the family cabin in Carney, Michigan.

Bonnie Brown

Willis' wife, whom he married in 2007.

William S. Willis

Willis' father, who preceded him in death.

Lilyan (Lehto) Willis

Willis' mother, who preceded him in death.

Donna (Dennis) Ferson

Willis' sister, who lives in Wakefield, Michigan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A private committal with Bill's family will take place at Lost Lake Cemetery in Stephenson, Michigan, in the spring.

The takeaway

William H. "Bill" Willis' obituary highlights the life of a dedicated family man and car enthusiast who left a lasting impact on his community in Wisconsin and Michigan. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew and loved him.