William Ray Hummel "Bill"

William (Bill) Hummel, age 75 of Las Vegas, Nevada passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025. He was born on September 17, 1949, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late Alice and Edward Hummel. Bill is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan; his children Rich and Kristen; five beloved grandchildren Ethan, Kylie, Lannah, Carson and Breanna; and sister Barbara Westphal and her husband Bill. Bill was raised in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. After graduating from Northwestern Military & Naval Academy in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, he attended the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. There, he completed the ROTC program and earned his bachelor’s degree, later going on to receive his master’s as well. Upon graduation, Bill was commissioned as a U.S. Army Officer, serving in Field Artillery. His military career took him to Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, and later to Fort Sheridan in Illinois. After eight years of dedicated service, he retired with the rank of Captain. Bill took great pride in his time in the Army. He loved sharing stories from his service with his children and grandchildren, often drawing connections between his experiences and everyday life. His stories were not only a source of entertainment but also valuable lessons in resilience, leadership, and integrity. After retiring from the Army in 1976, Bill embarked on a successful career in computer sales, working for prominent companies such as Wang Laboratories, Sharp, and Seiko. His strong work ethic and leadership skills carried over seamlessly from military service to the corporate world, earning him respect and success in the industry. One of the greatest joys of Bill’s life came in 1982, when he met Susan on a blind date. The connection was instant—and lasting. They were married on July 30, 1983, and Bill joyfully embraced his new role as a father to Susan’s two children, Rich and Kristen. Together, Bill and Susan built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Bill truly shined as a dad. Of all the roles he held throughout his life, being a father was the one he cherished most—and his greatest achievement by far. Bill retired from formal work in 1999 when he and Susan relocated to Las Vegas. Retirement didn’t slow them down—in fact, it marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with adventure and quality time with family. They loved traveling together, especially taking scenic trips on their Harley, and frequently visited Illinois and Washington to spend time with their grandchildren. Bill’s legacy is that of a true Christian man—steadfast in his faith, devoted to his family, and a guiding presence in the lives of those around him. He led by example, quietly instilling strong values in his children and grandchildren. In times of adversity, Bill was unwavering; he remained faithful, open-minded, understanding, and above all, loving without condition. One of Bill’s best traits was his sense of humor. He brought joy to every room he entered, it was how he connected with people, showed he cared, and lifted the spirits of those around him. In many ways, his laughter was a gift he gave freely, and it's one of the things we'll miss most about him. A lifelong member of the Episcopal Church, Bill was deeply involved in his faith community. He served on the vestry, joyfully assisted on the altar, and participated in various church committees. His service was not just a duty—it was an expression of the principles he lived by every day. Bill also remained deeply connected to his roots at St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin. Returning to the school that shaped his early life, he served with pride and dedication on the Board of Trustees for 27 years. He and Susan visited annually to attend ceremonies, plan and host reunions, and take part in meetings. In 2024, Bill led the efforts to restore the historic pipe organ at the academy—a project that meant a great deal to him. The academy was more than a school to Bill—it was a second family. He maintained many close friendships from his high school years, cherishing those lifelong bonds. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation in honor of William Hummel. Your support will help further research and improve the lives of those affected by these conditions. A memorial service will be held in Las Vegas, with details to be announced soon. A Fallen Limb A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me. Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. The good life I lived while I was strong. Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small. Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls. I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin. Until the day comes we’re together again.”

William Ray Hummel "Bill"

September 17, 1949 - May 13, 2025