William Verle Grotjan, 87, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away on February 29, 2016 at his home with his family by his side.

Bill was born in Milwaukee on February 11, 1929 to William F. and Elizabeth L. (Erickson) Grotjan.  He married the love of his life, Janet M. Carlson, on June 4, 1955.  They raised five children together on their farm in Eagle.

After earning his master’s degree in Botany from UW-Madison, Bill began his 35 year career teaching high school Biology in Edgerton in 1954.  He continued teaching with Milwaukee Public Schools until his retirement in 1988.

Bill enjoyed being involved in his community.  He was active in his church youth group with Washington Park Presbyterian.  He was a Boy Scout Leader with Pack 54 in Eagle during the 1970’s.  Bill was a garden volunteer at Old World Wisconsin in his later years.  Bill was an avid gardener, voracious reader, and a student of history.  His passion, knowledge, interest and understanding of the natural world was in evidence throughout his life. He enjoyed traveling, listening to music, camping, hiking, and playing his harmonica. Bill’s generous and kind nature will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Bill is survived by Janet, his wife of sixty years; their children, William and Sarah Grotjan of Neenah, Jessica and Arnold Chamberlain of Eagle, James and Michele Grotjan of Eagle, Jill and Anthony Blaedow of Palmyra, and Jennifer and John Zach of Stevens Point; his eight grandchildren, Laura Grotjan, William Grotjan, Arnold Chamberlain, Elizabeth Chamberlain Cooper, Julia Blaedow Dane, Emily Blaedow, Shane Zach, Rachel Zach, and one great-grandson, Frederick Cooper.

Private memorial services will be held at a later date.

Haase Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home of Eagle, is assisting the family. On-line guestbook is www.haaselockwoodfhs.com.