William Russell “Bill” Knotwell, age 68, of Lancaster passed away on Thursday April 1, 2021 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa. He was born on June 15, 1952 in Lancaster the son of Russell and Lois (Duncan) Knotwell. Bill was united in marriage to Nancy Jay in May of 2011.
Bill graduated from Lancaster High School in 1970. He drove semi-hauling oil rigging equipment out west for several years. Bill was later employed by the Grant County Highway Department operating heavy equipment for over 20 years until his retirement. His passions in life were sharp pickups, fast and loud cars, boats, and motorcycles along with his love of shooting trap. Bill was an active member with the Wisconsin Trap Shooting Association and was a competitive shooter. He shot trap wherever he could and enjoyed attending the Wisconsin and World Trap Shooting Championships. Through the winter months, Bill would plan all his summer events. Bill has passed his passion for shooting trap on to his grandchildren and “Willy” has also become a competitive shooter making the state team the last three years. Bill also enjoyed fishing and hunting especially with his dogs, and cheering on the Badgers, Packers, and Brewers. He also enjoyed watching Nascar and was a huge Dale Earnhardt Sr. fan. Bill adored his wife Nancy and they went through life together. His son blessed him with two grandchildren that he adored and Paige could always bring a smile to grandpa’s face when she entered the room and he was very proud of Willy’s shooting accomplishments.
Bill is survived by his wife and best friend Nancy of Lancaster, son Russell (Amanda Grimme) Knotwell of Lancaster, and his two grandchildren; Hunter and Paige Knotwell, sister Peggy (Kevin) Timmerman of Lancaster and their children; Jacob, Toni-Jo and Jared Timmerman.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Lois Knotwell and a special uncle Roger Knotwell.
Honoring the request of Bill, there will be no formal memorial services held at this time. A “Celebration of Life” honoring the memories of Bill will be held at a later date. The Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore is assisting the family and Cards of Sympathy may be mailed here at 925 10th St. Fennimore, WI 53809.