Obituaries

William N. “Bill” Knotts of St. Charles, Illinois, beloved husband and best friend of Lynne (Seymour) Knotts, passed away November 22 surrounded by family and friends. It was Thanksgiving Day, his favorite holiday. He was 78.

Bill’s life was full of love, compassion, and integrity. He gave of himself to everyone he met. He had an infectious smile, quick wit and wisdom, which he showered on loved ones, friends and strangers alike, particularly children. His devotion to his wife of 58 years, and to his family, was unwavering. He and Lynne often traveled to Iowa City and Minneapolis to be with their grandchildren.  He took great interest in all their activities, and in the welfare of his sister and brother’s families.

Bill was born March 26, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of John and Jeannette (Trull) Knotts.  He earned degrees from the University of Michigan and Harvard University and became a successful businessman, finally serving for two decades as president and chief executive officer of Spartanics, Ltd., in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Bill loved skiing in the Colorado mountains with Lynne. He was an avid photographer, gardener and golfer, and enjoyed taking long walks with his golden retriever, Seamus.

After his official retirement in 2008, Bill was so engaged in the St. Charles community that he often wondered aloud how he had ever found time to work.  He dedicated many hours to Kiwanis, Hesed House, and Lazarus House where he regularly volunteered overnight. He also served on the board of directors of Hope for Haitians.

Bill had an especially soft spot for children with special needs. He would willingly help them in any way he could.  During his extended hospital stay, his perseverance and fighting spirit was an inspiration to many and a tribute to the staff at Advocate Christ Hospital and Northwestern Memorial.

Bill is survived by his wife Lynne (Seymour) Knotts, a daughter, Laurie Martin, and son, Steven Knotts. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Kaitlin, Bryan, Michael and Matthew Martin, and Brady and Hannah Knotts, and by a sister, Sondra Lucas, her husband Jack, a brother, Robert Knotts, and nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death his by parents.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM on Friday, November 30, at St. John Neumann Parish, St. Charles, and will be followed by a Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 AM.  Burial will take place at River Hills Memorial Park in Batavia.

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