William "Bill" J. Kocian

William “Bill” Joseph Kocian Sr. of Waukon, IA passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, WI. He spent his last moments surrounded by his family and loved ones. Family and friends may visit on Sunday, September 20, 2015 from 3-6 p.m. at the Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah, IA. He was born March 18, 1957 to Anna M. (Malec) and Rudolph L. Kocian in Pittsburgh PA. He grew up a Pirates and Steelers fan, often times skipping school for opening day. Riding mini-bike and playing street hockey were some of his favorite activities. In 1975 he joined the United States Army, as an air conditioning specialist. He spent time at Fort Knox, KY. Fort Belvoir, VA. and Fort Devens, MA. While stationed at Fort Devens in 1980, he met and married Faye Olson of Decorah. From this union four children were born. Together, the army took them to Darmstadt and Wildflecken, Germany. After returning to the states, they settled down in Iowa where Bill made his home. In July of 2002 Bill married Janeen Ruen of Decorah. This union blended two families; together making a family of 5 girls and 3 boys. Taking eight children camping and fishing always turned into an adventure. Bill spent his last years with Michelle Albertson. They enjoyed camping, fishing and going for ride in his Metro Convertible. Bill was an avid outdoorsman. He spent several summers at Blackhawk Park where he enjoyed camping, fishing and sitting around the campfire. Bill could often be found on his boat with loved ones close by. When he wasn’t busy fishing he worked as a carpenter and did snow removal. He often dreamed of moving to Arizona to get away from the Iowa winters. Bill is survived by his children: Bill Jr. (Nicole) of Bloomington, WI, David (Julia) of Harmony, MN, Anthony (Aubrey) of Calmar, IA and Nicole (Nick) of Burr Oak, IA; two sisters, Pat and Lorraine of Pittsburgh, PA; five grandsons and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Anna, one brother and one sister.