Willard "Bill" Marvin Jepsen

Willard “Bill” M. Jepsen, born December 22, 1940, in Ephraim, Wisconsin, passed away from complications of Alzheimer on November 18, 2025. He was the son of Marvin and Gudrun Jepsen, and his early years were spent in various Coast Guard station communities that his father served, including Plum Island and Racine. Of all the places he lived, Washington Island held his heart the most. It was there that Bill developed his lifelong love of nature, wildlife, and the quiet beauty of the outdoors. After graduating from high school, Bill followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the United States Coast Guard. He served proudly from 1960-1962 and was stationed on Plum Island as a Light Keeper, and many of the stations he grew up at. Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on an adventure with the Merchant Marines, spending a year traveling the globe. Bill cherished this period of his life and loved sharing stories from his time at sea. Bill eventually settled in Sheboygan. He married Irene Binder in 1965; though they later divorced, the years they shared remained an important part of his story. He worked in several manufacturing plants before discovering his true passion—antiques. With an eye for craftsmanship and history, Bill became the owner and operator of Sheboygan Antiques, a business that reflected his appreciation for objects with stories and character. His shop became a place where he connected with people who shared his love for the past. 

Bill is survived by special friends Michael Miller and Chris Mischo, as well as his beloved rescue dog, Jack. He is further survived by nieces and nephews Mary (Richard) Berg, Tammy (Jeff) Walters, Jerry (Jean) Hutton, Michael Hutton, Patrick (Carissa) Hutton, Dawn (Terry) Chier, Ann (Tryg) Polzin, Robert (Cathy) Jepsen, and Brian (Yvonne) Jepsen, along with numerous great-nieces and great-nephews and many friends. Also survived by Debbie’s husband Michael Thielke. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gerald; sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Wally Polzin; and brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Susan Jepsen; nieces Debbie Thielke and Jorja Hutton; and great-nephew, Matthew Hutton.

Special thanks to the Zablocki VA Medical Center team, and the Palliative Care team for their compassion and kindness provided to Bill.

Bill will be remembered for his independent spirit, his generous storytelling, and the quiet pride he took in a life shaped by service, adventure, and the beauty of the natural world.

Following Bill’s wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Unity Spiritual Center, 2409 N. 8th St., Sheboygan, or the Sheboygan Humane Society.