In memoriam: Wilbur McKinnis

Cutter's Log - Supplemental

STERLING - Wilbur "Bill" McKinnis, 82, of Sterling, died Tuesday July 1, 2008, at CGH Medical Center.

Mr. McKinnis was born Jan. 21, 1926, in Tekamah, Neb., the son of Lloyd Wilber and Martha Madeline (Ashmead) McKinnis. He married Arline Bonnita Metzler, his high school sweetheart, on Nov. 15, 1943. They moved to Idaho and later relocated to Rock Falls. Arline preceded him in death on April 13, 1996. They were married for 53 years and raised two children, Judy and Bill.

Judy McKinnis of Sterling, survives her father. Their son, Bill, passed away in 1972.

Family was very important to Bill and his life centered around his love of family. Together they created wonderful family memories including school-related activities and 4-H. He was an active leader of the Rock Falls Eagles 4-H club and once served on the Montmorency School Board.

Bill was a highly skilled carpenter and a proud member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters for more than 55 years. In addition to building many homes, he served in a supervisory role in constructing Illinois nuclear plants.

Bill proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

On Jan. 3, 1998, Bill married Vernita Berard, who survives him. They loved traveling and especially enjoyed visiting places like Jamaica, where they could sit, relax, and hear the ocean. They created a wonderful collection of memories by purchasing magnets from all the locations they visited.

Survivors also include a host of very special relatives and friends from both the McKinnis and Berard families. His greatest entertainment was inviting friends out to share a meal. He enjoyed participating in the Big Brother Program and was a member of First Baptist Church, Sterling.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 5, at First Baptist Church, Sterling, with the Rev. John Kermott, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Coloma Township Cemetery, Dixon Road, Rock Falls, with military honors. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling.

A memorial has been established to First Baptist Church, Sterling.


Arline ("auntie neen") was my great-grandma Holder's twin sister. Grandma Holder is my father's mother's mother. Uncle Bill was a great and caring family man. I enjoyed visiting with him, auntie neen, and Vernita during all the holidays.

I'll miss you Uncle Bill. Rest in peace.