92, peacefully died on the morning of May 21st, surrounded by the love of his wife of 70 years, Joan, and his children, his children’s spouses, and many of his grandchildren.

From early in and throughout his life, William found his truth with his wife, family, and the Catholic Faith.

William was an exemplar salesman, informed with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Marquette University. After transitioning from several sales positions in the 1950s, he, along with two friends, established the North American Clutch Corp in an outbuilding on a farm outside of Cedarburg. He transformed this manufacturing corporation into a successful family business now led and managed by two of his sons.

William greatly enjoyed riding trains and long car rides. He relished in beating his grandchildren in cribbage and playing sheepshead and bridge with just about anyone. He deeply loved music, singing, gardening, history, reading, bread making, and the Packers.

William served in the Navy in World War II and deeply loved his country. He had many model naval ships and loved to take ocean cruises

All along his life, he was boundlessly optimistic, generous, and committed: a devoted husband, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many.

He is survived by his wife Joan Hargarten (Knoernschild), his eight children and their spouses, Michael (Kathleen), Stephen, (Janis Cohn), William, (Julie Ann), Daniel (Christine), Thomas, (Mary), Anita (Henry Krier), Jeffery (Vivian), and Katherine (Greg Moroder), 18 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren.

We are all so proud to have known him and to have been a part of his life.

We wish to thank the outstanding health care team of Froedtert for their extraordinary support during William's final hours. We wish to thank the Visiting Angels for their wondrous steadfast care.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 26th at St. Joan of Arc Parish, Nashotah (120 Nashotah Rd.) from 10 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon, followed by committal services at St. Joan of Arc Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials donations may be made to St. Joan of Arc Parish School or Friends of Sarnelli House.

“I am good tired……and I’m ready to be taken away” -My Grandfather, Harry Chapin, 1981.

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