Farmers Weekly Review

By Stephanie Irvine

You didn’t have to know William “Bill” Osborne for long to know what a kind, genuine, and overall great person he was. For more than 30 years, he dedicated his time to the fire service, starting as a volunteer and retiring as the Battalion Chief of the Peotone Fire Department.

Most recently, he served on the Manhattan Fire Protection District’s Board of Trustees, helping to make important decisions for the future of the area. It seemed he was always contributing in some way to better the world around him.

He was married to his wife, Vickie, for 44 years, and together, they raised a family that included two sons, Joshua and Christopher, and a daughter, Brianna, along with numerous grandchildren. He was a son, a brother, an uncle, a father-in-law, a friend, and a good neighbor—he played countless roles and made a positive impression on all he met.

Osborne’s dedication to the fire service was apparent at all levels, and several departments and fire organizations took time to honor his life in the days following the news of his passing.

He played an integral role in the committee that built the Peotone Fire Station and later helped the department transition from volunteer to staffed. He was present at nearly every event, from open houses to graduation ceremonies, and his leadership undoubtedly shaped many of the men and women working within the Fire District today.

“His contributions over the years were countless, and it is true to say that our organization would not be what it is today without the efforts of Bill Osborne,” a statement provided by the Manhattan Fire Protection District read.

His work didn’t stop with the fire service—he also worked for Nicor, retiring from that career after 30 years in 2015.

“He was the jack of all trades and the fixer of all things. If you knew Bill, he probably helped you with a project or a problem at one time or another,” his obituary read.

Following the news of Osborne’s unexpected passing on January 11, an outpouring of support for his surviving family members appeared on social media and in the online guestbook of his obituary.

Far more than simple thoughts and prayers, Osborne’s friends, family, brothers and sisters in the fire service, neighbors and acquaintances offered their most sincere condolences, and expressed their sorrow with fond memories.

The stories were personal and unique— and there was no shortage of them. No question there are more stories, better to be told in person. Fun memories where hearty laughs heal, smiles of understanding Osborne’s kindness, and memories with getting things done.

“The Bill Osborne smiling grin,” popped up more than once, the memory of his unforgettable smile, comforting the hearts of those who mourn him.

Others shared memories of growing up with Osborne, and friends recalled memories of the relationship he shared with his wife, bringing up fun times spent on the lake.

Neighbors shared how he’d helped them out—giving even more credence to the idea that if someone knew him, he had helped them at some point.

It was incredibly apparent that Osborne was ferociously loved by many. He will be sorely missed, but his memory will be eternally celebrated.

A loss this great is palpable—but the legacy Osborne leaves in his wake will stand the test of time. The community will miss him but will not soon forget all he did for it.

Services for Bill took place at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on Thursday, Jan. 16. There was a fire department walk-through service that evening. A funeral service was held the following day at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on January 17, preceded by a visitation. The burial will be at Peotone Cemetery.

Memorials to the Manhattan Fire Protection District in Bill’s name are appreciated in lieu of flowers.

Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.