William E. Kempe

William E. Kempe, 75, of Chippewa Falls, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems of Osseo.

He was born on May 9, 1949 to William N. and Muriel (Erickson) Kempe, in Chippewa Falls, WI. He married the love of his life, Mary Johnholtz, on January 23, 1971. Together they raised two wonderful children, Rebecca and Brian. 

William wore may hats throughout his life to include deputy sheriff, and deputy coroner. He proudly owned the Chippewa Falls Ambulance service for 18 years. His favorite job, however, was being an RN—a title he earned at the age of 50, it was his lifelong dream. William was also passionate about politics, ever-reminding those he loved to VOTE.

William is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Kempe; his children, Rebecca (Nate) Ramker of Davenport, IA, and Brian (Michelle) Kempe of Stevens Point, WI; his siblings, Michelle Polencheck, and Wendy (James) Dulian of Chippewa Falls, WI, and Kami Brillowski of Plover, WI; his grandchildren, Alexandria, Kayla, Tyler, Michael, Ruthanne, Jenna, Maxwell, Grace, Faith and Benjamin; along with 13 great-grandchildren; and many other friends and relatives. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, William N. and Muriel Kempe; two brothers, Scott Kempe and Bobby Ingersoll; as well as a brother-in-law, Dan Polencheck. 

A viewing will take place on Monday, September 9 from 4-7pm at Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel in Chippewa Falls. Funeral services will take place at 10:30am on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 with a viewing at 9:30am. William will be interred in Fifield, WI at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of William’s passion for politics and his country, please make sure to vote this upcoming election.