William Bane

William (Bill) Bane of Minonk, Illinois, passed away on September 1, 2023, after a lengthy illness.  Bill was born to John and Loretta Bane of Dana, Illinois, on October 12, 1941. 

On June 23, 1963, he married Emily Reineking, of Metropolis, Illinois, and she survives.

He attended grade school in Dana, Illinois, and then graduated from Minonk Dana Rutland High School with the class of 1959.

Bill farmed in the Dana area first with his father, then his brother and then his son, before retiring and moving to Minonk in 2003. He then was employed by Crop Production, in Wenona, Illinois.

Bill is survived by his wife, Emily, their son, Ricky (Vicki) Bane of Dana, Illinois, and Julie Ann Bane of Nolensville, TN.  His sister, Bernice Peters, of Flanagan, Illinois. And his brother, Danny (Sally) Bane of Wenona, Illinois, and many nieces and nephews.  His grandchildren, Allyson Bane of Leroy, Illinois and Samuel Bane of Hartsville, SC. Proceeded in death was one brother, John V. Bane, Brother-in-law Ronald Peters, and Brother-in-law Bernard Reineking.

After retiring from farming, Bill found joy in restoring an antique Oliver tractor.  He enjoyed driving it in many parades and participating in farm shows over the years.   Bill enjoyed using these shows as an opportunity to visit with friends and swap stories.

He was a member of the Marshall-Putnam Antique Association, and the Minonk Baptist Church, Central States Thresherman’s Reunion, and had a long history as a volunteer with the Dana Fire Protection District and Groveland Township.

Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Minonk. Pastors JoAnn Ruff and Richard Reed will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1-3p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home prior to the services. Private family graveside will be held at Dana Cemetery. Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Minonk is handling arrangements for the family.

Memorials can be made to the St Jude Childrens Hospital or the Minonk Baptist Church. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.