William "Bill" Menz, Sr., Retired TSgt. USAF, age 82, of O'Fallon, Ill., died Thursday, January 21, 2021. He was born July 3, 1938 to Raymond and Hazel, nee Foughty, Menz, in Brainerd, Minn.

Bill was a longtime resident of O'Fallon, Ill. His love of fishing was apparent, as an avid tournament bass fisherman, known by many as "Hawg Hunter." He was a member of Shiloh Valley Bassmasters. He received many awards and trophies over the years from tournament fishing and participated in numerous benefit tournaments.

During his career in the United States Air Force, he served as a Flight Steward on C-141C aircraft on MAC1, Scott Air Force Base, and other MAC bases here and abroad. He took great pride in military life and serving his country. He retired in 1976, at Scott AFB.

Bill also worked for O'Fallon School District 90 as Director of Maintenance for 22 years before retiring in 2000.

Since his retirement, he and his wife Gwen, have enjoyed their favorite activities such as visiting Branson, River Boat cruises, and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Hazel, nee Foughty, Menz; brother Gary Menz; daughter Debra Menz Mills; grandchildren Allison Carron and Daniel Carron; and stepson Daren Harding.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Gwen, nee Bell, Menz, sons Bill (Sandy) Menz Jr. of Ward, Ark.; Richard (Ruth) Menz of East Alton, Ill., daughter Lisa Menz (Walter) Kirkland of Conway, Ark.; and stepdaughter Jayme (Dan) Reida of Shell Knob, Mo. He also leaves behind grandchildren Kim (Matt) Waymack, of Ward, Ark., Tracy Menz, Bradley Menz, and Kelly (Jimmy) Johnson, all of Alabama; Joseph, Aden, and Anna Kirkland, all of Conway, Ark.; Jacob (Emily) Williams, of Carmel, Ind., five great-grandchildren; and sister in law Dee Menz.

A family-only graveside service will be held Tuesday, January 26, 2021, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo., with Pastor Don Long officiating. Military honors will be rendered.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.wfh-ofallon.com . Memorial donations would be appreciated to O'Fallon First United Methodist Church , 504 E. Highway 50, O'Fallon, IL 62269. Flowers may be sent to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.