Mr. William "Bill" Lee Balbinotti

William Lee “Bill” Balbinotti, 75, of Galesburg, died at 10:36 a.m. Saturday, January 12, 2019 in the emergency room at Galesburg Cottage Hospital.

He was born September 10, 1943, in Canton, the son of William “Willy” and Barbara (Essex) Balbinot.  He married Nancy Kay Bowen on December 29, 2001, in Galesburg.  She preceded him in death July 27, 2013.

Bill graduated from Canton High School in 1962 and then Western Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement.  He spent most of his adult life serving in the United States Military, ending as a Navy recruiter.  He was an outstanding recruiter and received many awards in the 1980’s and 1990’s.

Bill was a member of American Legion Post 285, a life member of VFW Post 2257, the Air Force Association, the Disabled American Veterans Commanders Club, and the NRA.

Bill was a man of faith who loved his country, church, family, and Jake, his yellow lab service dog.

Bill liked playing pool and amateur boxing.  He won the 1979 Military Invitational Hawaiian Open Division as a Light Heavy Weight.

He is survived by two children, Brent Alan (Judy) Balbinot of Holland, Ohio and Tracee Leigh Roberts of Galesburg; a sister, Cindy Rodney of Canton; and his late wife’s children, Julie Pierce and Chris Schulthes.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at First United Methodist Church.  Rev. Vince Rohn will officiate.  Bill’s military service will also be honored.  The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service.  Per his wishes, his body will be cremated following organ donation.  Inurnment will be at a later date with a private family service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is handling arrangements for the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

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