Early Wednesday, April 15th, 2026, William C. De Cleene was greeted by our heavenly father and entered the gates of heaven. In the comfort of his home, he so proudly built, with Judy by his side, William passed away peacefully.

Bill was born on September 7th, 1950 in Green Bay, son of the late Victor “Vic” & Leona (Patzke) De Cleene of De Pere, WI. After graduating from West De Pere High School and NWTC, Bill secured a position with the city of De Pere as a Civil Engineer. He was also a member of the Army National Guard. He worked with some of his dearest friends, truly enjoyed his career, and cherished a city that he loved, De Pere, WI.

On October 23rd, 1987 at Heritage Hill in Green Bay, Bill joined Judy Dombrowski-Sweeney in what would become 39 kind, caring and compassionate years of marriage.

Bill will be extremely missed by his wife Judy; his children: Craig (Andrea) De Cleene, John (Jessica) Sweeney, Jill (Sam Abolkhair) De Cleene, and Jenna De Cleene; grandchildren: Will, Aiden, Bryce, Ella, and Braylon; his siblings and in-laws: JoAnne (John) Werner, John (Lori) De Cleene, Vonnie (Larry) Voight, Barb De Cleene, Bob Arvey, Joan (Jim) Wiese, and Jane Dombrowski; nieces, nephews, godchildren and Godparents, Aunt Helen and Uncle Butch as well as Marlene Gerrits, plus more friends and love than most because he was so generous and giving with both.

Bill was greeted in Heaven by his parents, Vic and Leona, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Clarence “Breezie” and Delores Dombrowski and siblings, Eileen (Ken Miller), Larry and Vicki, nephew, Jason Wiese, and his close friends, Hank Schmitt and Grandpa “Candy” Machurick.

Bill was active in the community that he loved including the Knights of Columbus as a lifetime member and volunteering with the American Red Cross. He and Judy went on many adventures, including 18 winters under the Hawaiian sun. From jumping out of planes to drag racing cars to scuba diving excursions, Bill lived a life of love and without fear.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Brillion, WI. Officiating will be Rev. Matt Colle and Deacon Greg Van Thiel. The family will greet relatives and friends at the church prior to the service starting at 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m.

Online condolences may be made www.pielhop.com