In Loving Memory of Will Daniel Ensslin
Whitewater, WI – Will Daniel Ensslin, 77, passed away peacefully on 11-26-2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a brave and long battle with cancer.
He was born on February 5, 1947 in West Allis, WI to Willy and Ellen Ensslin. Will was a devoted husband, proud and loving father, cherished brother, uncle, cousin and loyal friend to many. He was also a proud Vietnam veteran, serving his country with courage and honor as a Huey helicopter mechanic from 1966 – 1967 — a dedication to service that remained a cornerstone of his life.
He married the love of his life and best friend, Susan Bilkovich, in 1971 in Milwaukee, WI. Shortly after their wedding, they embarked on an adventure together, moving to the serene mountains of Virginia in Natural Bridge Station. In September 1974, they joyfully welcomed their first daughter, Jenny. Two years later, they returned to Wisconsin, settling in the charming town of Whitewater, where their family grew again with the birth of their second daughter, Sara, in July of 1978.
An inspiring educator, Will was an elementary school teacher from 1973 to 1996, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. After retiring from teaching, his boundless curiosity and strong work ethic inspired him to explore a variety of fulfilling careers. In LaCrosse, WI, he helped first-time homebuyers navigate their journeys through the Community Action Program. Because of his love for remodeling homes he was licensed and became a home inspector in the LaCrosse area and western Minnesota. Later, he channeled his creativity and love for nature by starting a successful landscaping business in The Villages, Florida. Additionally, he enjoyed working at several hardware stores, where he enthusiastically shared his extensive knowledge and passion for home improvement with others.
Will was happiest when surrounded by nature. Whether planting trees, tending to a garden, or simply taking in the beauty of the outdoors, he found peace and joy in the natural world. He also had a lifelong passion for collecting and restoring classic cars, finding immense satisfaction in bringing vintage treasures back to life. Will cherished his bond with animals, especially cats, treasuring their companionship and caring for them with great affection. His love for animals extended to his volunteer work with the Humane Society in Eureka Springs, AR, where he generously gave his time to help those in need.
Will lived a life full of love, service, and passion. Whether teaching in the classroom, working with his hands, collecting and restoring of classic cars, planting trees, or caring for animals, he brought love and care. Though deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the lives he touched and the nature he cherished.
Will is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Ensslin; his children, Jenny Ensslin (Beth); Sara Porter (Brad); their beloved cat Yeti; and an extended family of loved ones and dear friends. He will be remembered for his compassionate heart, tireless work ethic, and unwavering love for his family, nature, and community.
The family would like to thank Rainbow Hospice for their kindness and support.
An open house celebration of his life with light hors d’oeuvreswill be held on December 1st at The Fuzzy Pig (N8660 Clover Valley Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190 ) from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Whitewater Food Pantry, Touched by a Paw, Rainbow Hospice, the Community Space in Whitewater or a charity of your choice.
