William "Bill" E. Adams

William E. Adams, fondly known as Bill, passed away on February 25, 2025, at the Celebrate Senior Living of Moline in Moline, Illinois. He was born on June 16, 1935, in Moline, IL, to Edward E. and Evelyn L. (Welander) Adams.

Bill's life was one characterized by his dedication to service and his passions. He served honorably as an airman in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. His commitment to bettering his community and those around him was evident through his longstanding involvement in various organizations. He held esteemed positions including two Lodge Masters, a Grotto Monarch, and several roles as a hobby president. A proud member of the First Covenant Church in Moline, the Mason Lodge, and the Grotto, he dedicated much of his life to fostering camaraderie and charitable work.

A graduate of Moline High School, Bill furthered his education by attending New York University Correspondence School, reflecting his belief in lifelong learning. His career as a photographer for Catalog Studios allowed him to capture moments and memories that will be cherished by many.

Bill was known for his love of the arts, particularly his treasured Santa Claus collection, a testament to his joyful spirit. He also enjoyed driving his Model T and found great pleasure in the music of Rex Allen Sr. and Rex Allen Jr., which often accompanied his reminiscences. His affinity for nature was showcased in his favorite flowers, Dahlias and Pansies, embodying the beauty he appreciated in both moments and landscapes.

Family was a cornerstone of Bill's life. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Shirley D. Adams; two grandsons, Thomas Adams and Michael Lundeen; and six great-grandchildren, Sean, Kaiden, Bentley, Carter, Rylan, and Mercedes Adams. He also cherished the companionship of his sister, Jean (Mervin) Hemm.

Bill's legacy is colored by the profound love he had for his family and friends, and it is tinged with sorrow for those who predeceased him: his wife, Ann (Hensley) Adams, who passed away on February 8, 2006; his stillborn daughter, Violet Sue Adams; and his son, Richard L. Adams, who left us on January 15, 2021.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the VA Hospital in Iowa City and the Covenant Harbor Bible Camp in Lake Geneva, WI, for their support and care throughout Bill's journey.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline, IL. A visitation will take place before the service from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Doric Masonic Lodge 319 will participate in the service, and the American Legion Post 246 will conduct military honors at the graveside at Rock Island National Cemetery.

As we remember William E. Adams, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, community, and a steadfast spirit. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences to the family on his Memory Wall at wendtfuneralhome.com