Bill Bernardoni

Bill A. Bernardoni, 73, of Seneca, formerly of Ottawa, went home to Jesus on Friday, March 29th, 2024 in Peoria, Illinois. 

Bill was born on Sept. 11, 1950 to John and Corinne Bernardoni.   He married Sue Daugherty on May 21, 1983.  

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sue.  They were married for 40 years.  He is also survived by his three sons. Jon (Kelly), Billy (Alecia) and Tyler (Elizabeth).  Bill was a dedicated father and an awesome Papa to his seven grandchildren; Anna and Aaron, Reagan and Jackson, William, Lindy and Eli. Also surviving, his brother John (Brenda) and his sister, Betty McDowell (Phil) and many nieces and nephews.  

Bill graduated from Ottawa High School in 1968 and Illinois State University in 1973; where he earned a degree in theater.  His career after graduation began at Newtson Iron and Metal, alongside his Dad, brother and brother-in-law.  He then opened and owned Bernardoni’s Italian Restaurant in Naplate. He retired from Country Financial in 2022 after 20 years of serving the residents of the Seneca area.  

He had a love of music and a beautiful voice which he used to share his love of the Lord.  Bill had a passion for fishing, golfing, singing and cooking. He loved to make special dinners for his family and friends. (Asiago chicken was a favorite!) He was a die hard Bears  and Cubs fan! When the Cubs won the World Series in 2016, Bill was elated! 

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 10:00a.m at Fox River Lutheran Church in Sheridan, IL. Visitation will be at Ottawa Funeral Home on Friday, April 5th from 4:00-7:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Fox River Deacons Fund, a Servants Heart in Ottawa or to the family.  

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