William R. "Bill" Heller

William Raymond Heller “Bill”, 83, of Winona, passed quietly at home on December 5, 2023.

Bill was born in Winona, MN, in 1940, to Raymond W. Heller and Violet J. Heller (Vaughn). At the age of 16, Bill’s family moved to California, where he graduated from high school and attended college. In 1959, he met his future wife, Patsy Dawdy, and they were married in 1960.

He was employed with a company that designed and built the guidance system for the Trident Submarines and involved with the early years of the US Space program. After 20 years in this industry, Bill moved his family to Seattle, Washington, where they bought a Shoe Repair shop and later added a Boot and Western store. He and his wife worked in the business for 20 years. He was very proud of their success.

In the mid-90s, Bill and Patsy decided to move back to Bill’s hometown of Winona. He worked for DCM until his retirement in 2005. Bill had a successful career, and later enjoyed his years of business ownership.

After retirement he and Patsy bought a 5th Wheel and traveled the U.S. extensively for 5 years. Traveling fulfilled a lifelong dream. Bills favorite hobbies over the years were restoring Ford Model-A cars, fishing, and gardening.

He is survived by his wife Patsy, of 63 years; two daughters: Cyndee Heller of Winona, and Carrie Gabriel (Heller) of Winona; granddaughter, Jennifer Russeau (Heller) and spouse Jake Russeau of Winona; great-grandchildren: Lyla and Liam; and brother, Richard Heller and spouse Pam of Marysville, WA. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Kessler.

The family would like to thank the staff and wonderful caregivers of Home Instead who graciously and patiently assisted in Bill’s care during his last few months, and the wonderful Gundersen Hospice staff.  We are so grateful for their help.

Private family graveside services and burial were held at the Fountain City Public Cemetery in Fountain City, WI.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Bill’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.