MT. MORRIS — William V. Motter, 98, of Mt. Morris, passed away on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.  Bill was born on June 13, 1925, in Egan, IL., the son of William H. and Grace (Reber) Motter.  Bill married the love of his life, the former Helen G. Benditz, in Aurora, IL., on April 23, 1954.  They were married for 56 years until Helen’s death in 2010.  Bill was a graduate of Leaf River High School, Class of 1943, and the University of Illinois, Class of 1950.  He was self-employed for many years as an insurance agent and income tax preparer.  He served in the U. S. Navy during World War II.  During his long life, Bill was active throughout the Leaf River and Ogle County Community.  Bill was a charter member of the Leaf River (Jerry Wickam) American Legion Post, and until his death, the oldest living member.  He also served on the board of the Lightsville Cemetery Association for almost forty years.  Bill was active in local politics as a member of the Republican party, serving many years as precinct committeeman and was a long-time member of the Ogle County Board.  He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Freeport Consistory and the Leaf River Grange.  In his later years, he and Helen enjoyed road trips to visit their family who took up residence all around the country.  They enjoyed hiking and bicycling along the way.  Bill also enjoyed spending time researching family genealogy, which he documented extensively into the 1600 and 1700’s. 

Bill is survived by his children, Elizabeth (Andy Kroese) Motter of Patagonia, Arizona, William K. (Jenifer) Motter of Brownsville, Oregon, Kathryn (Rich) Brotherton of Austin, Texas; five grandchildren; and sister Marian Garrett of Mt. Morris.  Bill was predeceased by his parents and his brother Donald.

A funeral will be held at 11AM Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Finch Funeral Home, Mount Morris, IL,.  Visitation will begin at 10AM. Bill will be laid to rest at the Lightsville Cemetery joining his beloved wife, Helen.  To honor Bill’s memory please direct any memorials to the Leaf River Historical Society and the Leaf River American Legion Post 1148.