William E. Trompeter

William “Bill” Trompeter, 86, of DeWitt, Iowa, passed away peacefully early Sunday, October 9, 2022, following a brief illness.

William E. Trompeter was born January 26, 1936, in Peoria, Illinois, to Edmund and Marguerite (Rohman) Trompeter. Bill worked throughout his teen years to pay tuition to attend parochial high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in Germany during peace time. Upon his return he attended St. Ambrose College, completing his BA degree. Bill began teaching at St. Joseph High School in DeWitt, where he was also head coach of varsity basketball and baseball. Bill helped guide the lives of his many students and athletes by his example and teaching. Bill was united in marriage to Margaret Lahann at St. Joseph Catholic Church in DeWitt on August 18, 1966, and inherited a ready-made family of 3 young daughters. He continued his education at Bradley University, receiving his MA degree in secondary administration. Bill served as superintendent of several schools in Illinois, retiring in 1995 from St. Anne High School in St. Anne, Illinois. He and Margaret returned to DeWitt in 2014 to be close to family. Margaret preceded him in death on December 15, 2019, following 53 years of marriage.

Bill was an avid Cubs and Bears fan. He enjoyed word puzzles of all kinds. Bill was very proud of his grandchildren and enjoyed attending their events and following their careers.

He is survived by his daughters, Connie Lahann of DeWitt, Christine Lahann of Iowa City and Marian (Denny Glenzinski) Wilkinson of Bradley, Illinois; grandchildren, Lucas (Katie) Wilkinson of Sonora, California, Meghann (Michael Caskey) Wilkinson of Beach Park, Illinois and Hannah (Stephen) Joos of Denver, Colorado; great-granddaughters, Elsie and Violet Wilkinson; his brother, Norman (Dorie) Trompeter; nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Sister Mary David Trompeter O.S.F., Joanne Saupe, Esther Powel, and brother, Paul Trompeter.

Visitation will be at St. Joseph Catholic Church, DeWitt, from 9:30 until 10:15 a.m. Friday, October 14, 2022.  A Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday in the church with the Rev. Fr. Stephen Page officiating.  Interment will be in the church cemetery.

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

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