William "Bill" G Marshall

William G “Bill” Marshall passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on September 15, 2026. Bill was born May 27,1943 in Evanston, Illinois to John C and Fern L (Liesman) Marshall. He and his only sibling, Don, shared a birthday, exactly one year apart. His brother routinely called him shorty or Willie G growing up. It is funny to think that Bill was 6’2 and taller than all of his family members by the time he was 13. Bill was raised in Mason City, IL and graduated from the local high school in 1961. On August 17, 1969 he married the love of his life, Elizabeth Carol Marshall, in Victoria, Texas and made a life together on the farm in Mason City. When Bill was young, he loved playing all kinds of sports, in particular basketball where he became an all-star player during his HS years. Not long after high school he was drafted into the army during the Vietnam War. He later became a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne division. He continued his passion for jumping out of planes even after his time in the military ended. Ironically, as he aged he became known as the guy who never wanted to fly but would rather drive all over the country. He served his country honorably and was thankful to never be called into enemy territory. Bill returned to Mason City and started to farm alongside his dad and then began to branch out on his own. He had his own hog farm for some time but eventually focused on farming corn, soybeans and wheat. His strong work ethic as a student and active membership in the FFA club led him into what would be a lifelong work partnership with John Van Horn. Farming was in his blood. Bill loved to nurture the soil, take care of the land and engage with fellow farmers every chance he could get. Bill retired from farming at the very young age of 78 with a smile on his face. He always found joy in his work. As much as he loved farming, his greatest accomplishment and deepest source of pride was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Carol for 57 years. They raised three kids, Eric (Meg), Tara (Russell), and Kevin (Alesha). He taught each of them to love the Lord and always keep him first in your heart, how to work hard, and how to persevere. Bill was so proud of his family. He was especially proud of the next generation to emerge, his grandchildren. Tyler, Ryan, Alex, Gracee, Amya, Gavin, Lia and Juliana have all started to emerge as individuals and he loved being part of their journey. When the family all got together, some of his favorite pastimes would be to play a game of kickball, shoot hoops in the shop or play cards and have an ice cream treat. Bill was a faithful servant to Jesus and active member of Christ Lutheran Church his whole life. He served on countless committees but where he might be remembered most is his energy to routinely be found on the top of a ladder fixing something or decorating the Christmas tree for the church. He was grateful for all his family and friends that became an important part of his life. The Marshall family is humbled by the outpouring of generosity and support that has been given during this time. The celebration of life will be held at Christ Lutheran at 1pm Saturday, Sept 19. Please join the family for a dessert reception at the church after the services. Dinner to follow after the church reception back at the farm. Memorial contributions can go to Christ Lutheran Church.

William "Bill" G Marshall

May 27, 1943 - September 15, 2026

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