William “Bill” John Urch of Woodstock, Illinois, passed away naturally on March 2, 2025 at the age of 81. A devoted father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Bill’s life was marked by resilience and dedication. Born on December 31, 1943, to parents Floyd and Hazel (Thompson) Sherman. Bill was six of the seven Sherman children. During childbirth with the seventh child, Hazel Sherman tragically passed away. The children were separated and sent to different family members to be cared for, while Bill and his younger sister were adopted by Reverend Cecil and Marion Urch. He attended Woodstock schools and graduated from Woodstock High School. He developed a love for athletics and art that remained with him throughout his life. 

In 1962, Bill enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a jet engine mechanic aboard aircraft carriers including the USS Saratoga CV-60. While on shore leave in Greece, he met Akaterina (Kathy) Moliviatis. Together they began raising a family in Crystal Lake, Illinois. 

Bill held jobs at Chicago Aerial Industries and Woodstock Die Casting, while pitching fast-pitch softball on the weekends. During this time, he reunited with his biological siblings—an experience that brought new meaning to his sense of family and identity. 

In the late 1970s, Bill began a new chapter with Gloria Van Hof (Jones), building a loving home in Hebron and raising their children with care and devotion. He was a constant presence on the sidelines of their activities, cheering with pride. 

An avid sportsman, Bill enjoyed fast-pitch softball, cycling, golf, bowling, and tennis. He was a loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears and treasured meeting his sports hero, Ernie Banks. Bill served as Post Commander of Woodstock American Legion Post 412 for eighteen years, honoring fellow veterans and fostering community. 

He is remembered by his children Mike Dermatitis (Urch), Sam Davidson (Urch), and Jennifarre Urch; grandchildren Zoe Davidson, Miles Davidson, Charlotte Medsker; and great-grandchild Jade Moran. He was preceded in death by Floyd and Hazel Sherman; Reverend Cecil and Marion Urch; his siblings, Glen Sherman, Harold Sherman, Jean (Sherman) Mueller, Jim Sherman, Ruth (Sherman) Hunt, Evalyn (Sherman) Jarret, his daughter Anginetti Urch; and his favorite dog Sutter. 

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 19 from 9am-1030am at the chapel at McHenry County Memorial Park at 11301 Lake Ave. in Woodstock, IL followed by a Military honors ceremony. A reception will follow at Rosati’s Pizza at 1652 S. Eastwood Dr. Woodstock IL. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Anginetti L. Urch Foundation Scholarship at https://my.ccis.edu/Anginetti….

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