Born in 1932 in Decatur, Illinois, as the only child of Dwight and Pearl Cecil, Bill lived a remarkably full and adventurous life.

His honorable service as a U.S. Marine during the Korean War marked the beginning of a journey filled with diverse careers—from radio personality to hospital administrator, and later as a lighthouse and innkeeper. He and Fran owned and operated the Scofield House Bed and Breakfast in Sturgeon Bay, Door County, Wisconsin, starting in 1987 after restoring the historic 1902 Victorian home. They ran it (along with related rental properties) for over 30 years, creating lasting memories for guests in one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful areas.

Bill’s passion for Wisconsin shines through—skiing snow-covered hills, swimming in Little Elkhart Lake, and relaxing on the deck with Fran and a beer. His worldwide travels took him across Europe, Russia, and Japan, while closer to home he embraced boating, cross-country skiing, motorcycles, auto racing, snowmobiles, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers.

In retirement, Bill and Fran settled in beautiful Arizona, continuing their adventures with travel, poolside sunsets, golf cart rides, and time with their beloved dogs. His legacy endures through his five grandchildren: John, Michael, Lily, Ayden, and Avery.