Garden Prairie, IllinoisWilliam H. "Bill" Schwebke, age 69, a life long Garden Prairie, Illinois resident, died Friday evening, October 14, 2005 in his home after a sudden illness. Bill was born February 25, 1936 in Garden Prairie, IL the son of Howard A. and Vera M. (Fidder) Schwebke. He graduated from Belvidere High School in 1954. Bill and the former Mary Ann Stevens celebrated 48 years of marriage on August. 24, 2005. They were married in Belvidere in 1957. Bill owned and operated WHS Trucking, Inc. and was leased to Shadow Trucking of Rockford. Bill loved NASCAR racing and made several trips to Daytona and was an avid Bears, Bulls and Cubs fan. Bill was also a life long member of Garden Prairie United Church of Christ. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann of Garden Prairie, IL; sons, William Schwebke, Jr. of Garden Prairie, Thomas Schwebke of Rockford and Matthew (Terri) Schwebke of Garden Prairie; daughter, Lynn Schmalen of Garden Prairie; grandchildren, William III and Jennie Schwebke, Jordan and Jacey Schmalen, Jadelyn and Skylar Schwebke; sister, Joanne Rhode; best friends, Fred Steurer and Donald "Gus" Gustafson; cousin, Russell Schwebke; and his beloved dog, "Buffy".Bill is predeceased by his parents; infant son, Kevin ; brother Kenneth.

Memorials in William's name can be made to Garden Prairie United Church of Christ.