Bill was born on May 16, 1938 to Elmer and Esther (Dohner) at home hospital in Sterling. Bill attended McElrath Grade School and graduated from Morrison High School in 1956. He was a member of the Whiteside County Hay Makers 4-H club and Morrison FFA; showing cattle and playing 4-H softball. His hobbies included swap meets, restoring antique and garden tractors, showing his tractors at local shows, and attending Mt. Pleasant Old Threshers. He also served in the Army from 1958 to 1960 as a truck driver and staff driver..
Bill married Audrey Smith on July 29, 1961. Together they were stewards of the land. He dedicated his life to improving the land, raising livestock, and supporting his local farming community. He served as the Director and Associate Director for the Whiteside County Soil Conservation District. Together with his wife they hosted the Soil and Water Tour. In 1989, William Behrens’ family won the Farmer of the Year Award. A lifelong member of Messiah Lutheran Church, he played an integral role in building Christ Lutheran School. Bill was known for his love for the outdoor adventures, including camping, snowmobile trips, and traveling with family and friends, and making friends everywhere they went.
Survivors include his children: Marcia Ratliff and Douglas (Donna) Behrens; four grandchildren: Jason (Jennifer) Ratliff, Traci (Zack Wright) Shaw, Brittany (Brad) Spears, and Brandy (Bryan) Hall; six great grandchildren: Allison and Abby Ratliff, Roan Shaw, Brianne and Bentley Spears, and Renley Hall, and brothers: Jim, Ron, Jerry, and John.
Bill lost the love of his life Audrey Behrens on December 15, 2024.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday March 20, 2025 at Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation in Sterling. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday March 21, 2025 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Sterling, with Pastor Chad Bolosan officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling.
A memorial has been established to Christ Lutheran School and Milledgeville-Coleta Fire Department Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com.
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