William 'Bill' Gade

WILLIAM "BILL" E. GADE

Cedar Rapids

William "Bill" E. Gade, 56, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away Feb. 5, 2021. His family will hold a private memorial for him at a later date.

Bill was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and graduated from Prairie High School in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from Mount Mercy University of Cedar Rapids and worked for the Department of Corrections

in Iowa and later in Wisconsin.

Bill is survived by his two children, William (Alexis) Gade of Wisconsin and Elizabeth Gade of Illinois; and one grandchild, Liam Gade of Wisconsin. Bill is also survived by his mother, Maureen Gade; his father, Milt (Mary) Gade; his sister, Melanie Gade; and his niece and nephew, Chelsea and Cassidy Reller.

Bill is remembered by his children as a larger-than-life figure with a booming laugh and a generous heart. On the surface, Bill could seem like a stereotypical "man's man" with his love of sports, dogs and the outdoors. Those who knew him personally, however, remember him as a sensitive and emotionally complex person.

Bill had a wide array of talents. A gifted athlete and teacher, he poured his heart into coaching youth sports, for which he was beloved, and his trick plays were a delight for the kids and parents alike. Bill was also a skilled artist who produced beautiful landscape sketches.

Bill was most known for his sense of humor. He could make anyone crack a smile, and you could always find him at a gathering by following the sound of laughter. Most significantly, Bill was an exceptional father to his children. They cherish the memories of bedtime stories, play-wrestling, bike rides and the many trips to the dog park, sporting events and theater.

Rest in peace, Dad, and know that you are very much loved.