William Axtell

William F. Axtell, age 82, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2017, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home in Lancaster. He was born on August 2, 1934, the son of Raymond and Aughelle (Ryan) Axtell. William graduated from Cuba City High School. He farmed for a short time before building grain bins. In June of 1954, William was united in marriage to Barbara Wenzel. After their marriage, the couple resided in Lancaster and raised their family. William was employed at REA on a brush crew and worked his way to Line Superintendent. Retiring in 1994. William was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting, and cutting wood. He was a member of the Odd Fellows and the American Rifle Association. William was a devoted husband and father and dearly loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his loving wife, Barbara Axtell, Lancaster; their children: Brenda Taylor, Bart Axtell and Lori O'Neil, all of Lancaster; grandchildren: Jason and Michael Taylor, Nicole Yaun, Logan O'Neil and Brittany Wallace; 5 great-grandchildren; a brother, Raymond Axtell, Dubuque, IA; sisters-in-law: Sherry Axtell, Capron, IL; Sally Axtell, Hazel Green; a yellow lab, Abby.

In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Larry "Beagle" O'Neil; his brothers: Forrest and Silas Axtell; and a sister-in-law, Jane Axtell.

In keeping with William's wishes there will be no service or visitation. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with his care.