William "Bill" Montgerard

William “Bill” Earl Montgerard, 93, of Danville, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at his home.

He was born December 21, 1930, in Danville, Illinois to George and Thelma (Cheney) Montgerard. William got married on August 1, 1974, to his wife Ruby (Thomas) Montgerard, and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary together.

Bill has four daughters from his previous marriage: Susan (Joseph) Williamson of Vale, North Carolina, Nancy (Michael) Rebmann of Danville, Illinois, Laura Murdock of Danville, Illinois, and Mary Lynn (Sean) Montgerard-Hurst of Danville, Illinois; one stepdaughter: Lori Chowning of Danville, Illinois; Along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, brother Jack Montgerard, son-in-law John Murdock, and stepson Jeff Chowning.

Bill was a graduate of Danville High School and proudly served as a Musician in the US NAVY. In 1961 Bill opened B & J Music, which he owned and operated until his retirement. He was a professional musician and leader of several bands including the Bill Montgerard Orchestra and performed with many during his career.

He and his wife Ruby enjoyed being out on the water in their boat or even just traveling together. Bill would do woodworking in his free time; he was best known for his tops toy. Every morning, he would walk across the street to McDonalds to drink his coffee and give tops to the children to enjoy. He would also give tops to Danville AMBUC’S, where he was an active member for over 50 years. He was also a lifelong member of the Central Christian Church in Danville, Illinois.

In Lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Central Christian Church (1101 N. Vermilion St. Danville, Illinois 61832) or Danville AMBUS’S (P.O. BOX 266, Danville, Illinois).

Memorial Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Friday, September 6, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Illinois 61434.  Memorial Service follows at 3:00 PM Friday, September 6, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois with Adam Carlson officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Sunset Memorial Park.

Please join the family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on Bill’s tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St. in Danville is honored to be caring for the family.