Cover photo for William "Bill" Behrens's Obituary
William "Bill" Behrens Profile Photo
1938 William "Bill" 2025

William "Bill" Behrens

May 16, 1938 — March 14, 2025

Sterling

   William E Behrens 86 of Sterling, a dedicated farmer, loving husband,father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He tragically lost his life on March 14,2025 as a result of injuries sustained in an outside fire.

   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. Serving 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. 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. Brothers: Jim, Ron, Jerry, and John.

   Bill lost the love of his life Audrey Behrens on December 15, 2024.

   Visitation will be from 5PM-7PM Thursday March 20, 2025 at Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation in Sterling. Funeral services will be 11AM Friday March 21, 2025 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Sterling, with Pastor Chad Bolosan, officiating.Burial to 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

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William "Bill" Behrens, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Thursday, March 20, 2025

5:00 - 7:00 pm (Central time)

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Funeral Service

Friday, March 21, 2025

Starts at 11:00 am (Central time)

Messiah Lutheran Church

1601 Avenue F, Sterling, IL 61081

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Guestbook

Visits: 1923

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Send Flowers

Send Flowers

Plant A Tree

Plant A Tree