Harold “Bill” William Radl, age 93, of Wyeville, WI, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, WI. He was born on July 4, 1932, in Necedah, WI to William and Dorothy (Dvorak) Radl. Bill grew up and went to school in the Necedah and Elroy area with his siblings, James, Carol Ann, Charles, and Judith.
Bill was united in marriage to Barbara A. (Rittenhouse) Radl on September 29, 1951, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elroy, Wisconsin. Together they raised four children, Ronald, Richard, Rosann, and Robert. They lived in Elroy for a few years before moving to Wyeville in 1969. Bill dedicated 44 years to the Chicago Northwestern Railroad, where he meticulously maintained signals, ensuring the safety and reliability of countless journeys.
Bill served his country with honor. Drafted into the Army during the Korean Conflict, he spent two years from 1953 to 1955 in Germany. This period of service was a source of great pride for Bill, shaping a lifelong commitment to his fellow veterans. He was a life member of both the American Legion and the V.F.W., where he found camaraderie and purpose in supporting other service members. He found solace and joy in painting barns, a hobby that combined his love for art and rural life. An avid outdoorsman, Bill cherished the times he spent cutting firewood, hunting and fishing.
His dedication to his community was evident in the many evenings he spent tending bar at the Necedah Veterans Hall. Here, he shared stories, laughter, and a listening ear, becoming a beloved fixture in the lives of many. Bill’s love for driving in the Necedah Wildlife Refuge was more than just a pastime; it reflected his appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the Wisconsin landscape he called home.
He is survived by his children, Richard (Mary) Radl, of Tomah, WI, Rosann (Dan) Lawson of Camp Douglas, WI and Robert Radl; grandchildren, Derrick (Lindsey) Lawson of Poynette, WI, Brent Lawson of Camp Douglas, WI, Justin (Myka) Radl of Lakeville, MN, Bryce (Katie) Radl of New Lisbon, WI, Tyler (Jenna) Radl of Wautoma, WI, Aaron (Callie) Radl of Van Dyne, WI, and William (Lisa) Radl of Berthoud, CO; along with 10 great grandkids; brother, Charles; sisters, Carol Ann and Judith. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy; wife, Barbara; a son, Ronald; and his brother, James.
A prayer service for Bill will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Father Ethan Hokamp will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow in the Wyeville Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday af the funeral home. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
