William Joseph Kane, passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the age of 88.

Bill, as he was known to family and friends, was born on November 1, 1935, All Saints Day, to William and Grace (Bishop) Kane in St. Louis. William was Baptized as a baby at Saint Bernards Catholic Church. As a boy, he helped around the church and served as an altar boy. Bill attended the Catholic School in Florissant until his family moved to St. Clair. While he lived in St. Clair, he attended a one room school named Dually and St Clair Public School. He also attended Pacific Public School then he went back to Florissant Catholic School. Due to transferring to all the different schools, Bill quit school at the age of 16. He started right away working at Schultz Folding Box Factory in Pacific. Schultz Folding Box Factory changed names to Alton Box and then to Jefferson Smurfit. Bill worked there for 41 years as a diemaker when he had a heart attack and had to retire.

Bill married the love of his life, Naomi Rice, on October 24, 1953, at the age of 17. They were married by Naomi's cousin, Reverend Prietz, in Owensville. Two children came to bless them, a daughter, Angelia and a son, William Dale.

At the age of 17, Bill proudly served his country by joining the U.S. Army National Guard. He served from 1953 to 1960, then the Army Reserves before retiring with an Honorable Discharge.

In his younger years, Bill and Naomi enjoyed riding motorcycles with the many motorcycle groups. They also enjoyed time on their boats, skiing, camping and fishing, as well as traveling to many states in our beautiful country. He had many hobbies, including scroll wood working that he shared with his family and many friends. Bill was proud to live in the United States and of his heritage, having a Great Grandmother who was a full blooded American Cherokee Indian.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Kane and Grace Sons; one granddaughter, Harmonie Hohlt; one brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Gerry Kane; one nephew, Rick Kane; one niece, Barbara Kane; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Roy and Marie Rice, Mildred and Arthur Branson, Norvin "Butch" Rice; parents-in-law, Walter and Clara Rice.

Bill is survived by his wife of 70 years, Naomi Kane; one daughter, Angelia Hohlt and husband William of Union; one son, William Dale Kane of Beaufort; three grandchildren, Sarenatie Evans and husband David, Ian Hohlt, Clestin Hohlt and fiancé Rachel Bragg; four great grandchildren, Logan, Devon, Lydia Stout and Josiah Hohlt.

A private memorial service will be held.

He will be sadly missed by family and friends.