Willard G. "Bill" Bronsema

Willard "Bill" Bronsema was called home to his Lord and Savior on June 26, 2026, at the age of 90. Bill is rejoicing in Heaven with restored vision and reuniting with his beloved wife, Judith Kay Bronsema.

Born in Chicago on March 28, 1936 and raised in Oak Park, Illinois, Bill spent his early years surrounded by family and making lifelong friends. He proudly served his country as a Military Police Officer from 1956–1958, an experience that shaped his sense of duty and discipline throughout his life.

After returning home, Bill and Judy (nee Verbeek) were married on February 13, 1959. Together, on a foundation of faith, they built a family that became his greatest pride and joy. The love they shared remains woven through the generations that follow.

Bill built a career with his hands. There may not be a building in Cook County that he didn't paint or hang wallpaper in over the years. He took great pride in his craft. In his free time, you would find Bill listening to his beloved Cubs on the radio, tending to his impressive gardens and enjoying the simple pleasures of life and the company of those he loved.

As he gradually lost his sight, he often spoke of entrusting that loss to God and finding, in return, a deep sense of peace and contentment. Judy was at his side through it all.

Bill had a remarkable gift for making each person feel like the only one in the room. When he asked about your life, he listened with complete attention and genuine interest. He was an exceptional listener, endlessly curious about the people he loved.

Bill was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Judy, and by his sisters Jeanne (the late John) Dwarshuis, and Ellen (the late John) Cook, and brother John (Chris) Bronsema.

Bill is survived by his three daughters, Debra (Douglas) Pierik, Lorilee (Richard) VanderVelde, and Sherri Kallemeyn. He was a proud grandfather to Christopher (Faith) Pierik, Courtney (Richard) Warehime, Jori (Joseph) Wegner, Kami (Stephen) Vinke, Hollin (Robert) Dompeling, Tyler (Tiffany) Kallemeyn, Lacee (Joshua) Sinnema, MacKenzie (Dmitry) Petersen, and Brecken (Adrian) Deneen. His legacy continues through his 19 great-grandchildren.

A faithful servant, devoted husband, loving brother, proud father, and grandfather, and a man whose work and kindness left their mark on countless lives, Bill will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Orland Park Christian Reformed Church, 7500 Sycamore Drive, Orland Park, IL 60462 from 9:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Service 11:00 a.m. A live stream of the Funeral Service will be available. Please visit Bill’s obituary on Colonial Chapel’s website at colonialchapel.com to view the live stream of the service. The link will be posted shortly. Burial private at Chapel Hill Gardens South, Oak Lawn, IL.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400