William Charles "Bill" Stiedemann

A Life of Compassion, Curiosity, and a Love for All Creatures Great and Small

William Charles "Bill" Stiedemann, age 83, of Kiel, Wisconsin, passed away on October 8, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, a legacy of kindness, and more than a few cats who were fortunate enough to have called him their friend.

Born on January 13, 1943, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to Ed and Betty Stiedemann, Bill lived a life marked by hard work, an endless curiosity for learning, a uniquely dry sense of humor, and an extraordinary compassion for animals.

Bill was a lifelong learner with an impressive variety of interests. He attended the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, pursued studies in culinary arts and law, and earned several degrees in various fields. His love of learning was matched by his willingness to explore new opportunities. From his early involvement in the Boy Scouts to his years working in restaurants and later spending several years in the inventory field, Bill brought dedication and a strong work ethic to everything he did.

Among his more memorable professional adventures were several seasons working at EAA Oshkosh, where he served as the head of the doughnut shop. It was just one of the many chapters in a life filled with interesting experiences and unexpected talents.

Bill was also ahead of his time in recognizing the importance of recycling. He established an early recycling operation, AGC, in Neenah, Wisconsin, long before recycling became the widespread practice it is today. His entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking approach reflected his willingness to pursue ideas he believed in, even when they were not yet widely embraced.

Outside of work, Bill was a man of many passions. An amateur photographer, avid gardener, and devoted reader, he particularly enjoyed detective mysteries. He also loved cartoons, with Garfield holding a special place in his heart. Given Bill's affection for cats and his famously dry sense of humor, it seems only fitting that Garfield would be among his favorites.

Above all, Bill had an enormous heart for animals. While he cared deeply for creatures of every kind, cats were unquestionably his greatest love. Throughout his life, Bill opened his home and heart to countless feline companions, at one point caring for as many as 20 cats at the same time. To Bill, they were never simply pets; they were family. His kindness toward animals was one of his most defining qualities and something for which he will always be remembered. If there was a cat in need of a home, Bill was likely to find room for one more.

His compassion extended beyond animals to those in his community. Bill volunteered with local churches, helping provide food to people in need. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing what he had, or caring for an animal that needed a home, Bill quietly demonstrated that kindness is best expressed through actions rather than words.

Those who knew Bill will remember his unmistakably dry sense of humor, his wide-ranging knowledge, his independent spirit, and his ability to find interest in subjects others might overlook. He was a man who followed his own path, pursued his curiosities, and lived life in his own unique way. His humor could be subtle, often delivered with a straight face, leaving others to wonder for a moment whether he was serious before realizing they had just been on the receiving end of one of Bill's jokes.

Bill was the father of five children: Dawn Dewane, Heather Thierfelder, Rachael Stiedemann, Abraham Stiedemann, and Jacob Stiedemann.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Heather Thierfelder, and his parents, Ed and Betty Stiedemann.

Bill is survived by his four children, Dawn Dewane, Rachael Stiedemann, Abraham Stiedemann, and Jacob Stiedemann; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his sister, Mary Sheldon; brother, Mark Stiedemann; nephew, Christopher Stiedemann; niece, Laurel Stiedemann; two great-nephews; and two great-nieces.

While Bill's passing leaves a space that cannot be filled, his memory lives on through his family, the people he helped, and the many animals whose lives were made better because of his compassion. His life serves as a reminder that kindness does not have to be grand to be meaningful, that learning should never stop, and that sometimes the simplest acts of caring leave the greatest impact.

Perhaps the most fitting tribute to Bill is to remember that a little kindness can go a long way, that there is always something new worth learning, and that no home can ever have too many cats.

In honor of Bill's lifelong love for animals, memorial contributions may be directed to a local animal shelter, cat rescue, or animal welfare organization, should the family so choose.

Rest peacefully, Bill. May there always be a good book nearby, a garden in bloom, and a cat curled up beside you.