William "Bill" James Schram

Racine - William "Bill" James Schram, 81, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Ascension All Saints, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Bill was born to Joseph and Dorothy (nee Gehlaar) Schram on April 18, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois. On February 7, 1970, Bill was united in marriage to the love of his life, Harriet Leissner, in Racine, Wisconsin. Throughout his life, Bill exhibited a remarkable work ethic, having worked at J.I. Case in Racine following his honorable service in the United States Army. He retired from J.I. Case in 1994. Bill was known for his kind and helpful nature, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Despite his busy schedule, he never failed to make time for his cherished family, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to those he loved. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Bill was a passionate enthusiast of vintage automobiles. He possessed a vast knowledge of cars and delighted in attending car shows, going to junk yards to get parts, car painting and perfecting his skills in restoring cars. Additionally, he found joy in family vacations to northern Wisconsin, and later in central Wisconsin with cherished summers spent at the lake. Among his memorable traits was his signature phrase, "catch ya later," which echoed his optimistic outlook on life. Bill's legacy of love, generosity, and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him and those who had the privilege of knowing him. Bill will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 years, Harriet, son, Timothy (Beth); grandchildren: Garrett (Cadence), Gabrielle and Gunnar; daughter, Lesley Papara (Mike); grandchildren: Jocelyn (Joey) Sieber, great-granddaughter, Nollie May Sieber, Louis and Michael; daughter, Carrie Kemen-Flores (Rafael); grandchildren: Nick Kemen, Ashley Joseph (Matt), great-grandsons, Aaron and Harrison Joseph, Kyley Warwick (Lucas), and Eros and Ricardo Flores. Bill was never alone during his final hours, he was surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He waited until everyone had left except for his wife Harriet and their three children; Tim, Lesley, and Carrie. As he passed away peacefully into his next journey, they laid their hands upon him and said their final goodbye. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Thomas Schram. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 4:00 PM. A time of visitation for Bill will be held at the funeral home on Saturday from 2:00 PM until the time of service. The family wishes to express a special thank you to the staff in the ICU, and Brandon in the ER at Ascension All Saints for their compassionate care and support during Bill's time of need.

William "Bill" James Schram

April 18, 1942 - March 21, 2024