William "Bill" M. Barr

William M. Barr, fondly known as Bill, passed away on February 23,2026, in Downers Grove, Illinois, at the age of 75. Born on October 19, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Bill dedicated his life to his family, community, and profession.

Bill followed in the footsteps of his father by entering the funeral profession, where he became known for his patient, calm, and compassionate demeanor. He was profoundly dedicated to his craft and spent many years serving countless families in their times of need, providing comfort and support during life’s most difficult moments. In addition to his professional work, Bill served as a Lieutenant with the Volunteer Fire Department in Bensenville, where he remained active throughout the years, and most recently held the esteemed position of President of the Rural Firefighters Association. Following his retirement from funeral service, Bill found joy working part-time at the Edge Ice Arena in Bensenville.

His devotion went over and above his professional life; Bill was a proud patriot who cherished his civic duties. He never missed an election and actively encouraged others to understand the importance of their participation in democracy, volunteering as a poll worker and election judge alongside his wife for many years. Bill's altruism extended beyond the electoral process; he volunteered with PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter), showcasing his compassion for those in need and his desire to help improve the lives of others; and as an Eagle Scout, Bill was always a supporter of the Scouts in various capacities.

Bill was a graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science and achieved the distinction of being a Nationally Certified Paramedic. His rigorous training was complemented by his natural ability to maintain a calm presence and focus on the best plan of action, even in stressful situations.

As a devout Catholic, Bill’s steadfast faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a member of the former St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Bensenville for more than 46 years, Bill was actively involved in many volunteer roles, including serving as a Eucharistic Minister, a member of the Bereavement Committee, and a volunteer for SPRED (Special Religious Education Development).

Bill’s personality shone brightly through his kindness and thoughtfulness. His sense of humor and bright smile always left a lasting impression and warmed the hearts of those around him. He was also a diehard Chicago Cubs fan, and his love for the game was known among friends and family alike.

In his personal life, family was Bill’s proudest accomplishment. He adored his wife, Judy, nee Betchwars, and together they fostered a loving environment for their four children: Jennifer Barr, John (Becky) Barr, Jeremiah (Sam) Barr and Julia (Brandon) Bray, as well as their grandchildren, Madeline and Faith Wrzeciona, Reegan and Erin Barr, Jackson, Anderson, and Henry Bray. Bill found immense joy in the simple acts of caring for his grandchildren, especially in retirement when he had the time to cherish these beautiful moments. He instilled in them the values of kindness, integrity, and a passion for service, just as those values were instilled in him.

Bill is also survived by his siblings: Ellen (the late Brad) Ipsen, Michael (Kim) Barr, Mary (John) Mors, Nancy (the late Donald) Ryan, and brothers-in-law Jeff (Martha) Betchwars and John (Amy) Betchwars; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He will also be remembered by countless friends and colleagues whose lives he enriched with his gracious humanity.

Bill is reunited with his parents, the late William and the late Mary T. Barr, nee Harrington, and his siblings, the late Julie and the late John (Angie) Barr.

A Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12:00 Noon until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 PM at St. Catherine Labouré Catholic Church, located at 3425 Thornwood Avenue in Glenview.

Interment will be private at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside at a later date.