William "Bill" Edward Gooch

William Edward “Bill” Gooch, 85, of Hudson, WI, formerly of Litchfield, passed away August 10, 2025, at his home.

Mr. Gooch was born September 28, 1939, in Litchfield, IL, a son of Edward Lawson and Edith Louise (Thompson) Gooch. He grew up in southern Illinois, graduated from high school in Springfield, IL, and attended the University of Illinois in Champaign.

Mr. Gooch graduated as a pilot and worked in the aviation field for many years. His expertise was the technical side of aviation along with his experience in leasing and sales. He worked for North Central Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Cessna Aviation, ILFC Aircraft Leasing, and he started and owned a Cessna dealership, The Aeroplane Worx, for several years in the mid-1970’s.

Mr. Gooch enjoyed fast cars, slow boats, and he lived aboard his boat for many years, finally settling in Hudson at the St. Croix Marina after spending time in Miami and Fort Myers, Florida. He was a lover of music, playing saxophone in Jazz and Dixie bands throughout his life. Additionally, he had a lifelong love for dogs and always had a funny story to share about one dog or another. Lastly, Bill was a world traveler, spending time all around the world with his work, living in Hudson, WI during the summer and winters in Florida and Argentina.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria “Pia”; daughter Lynda (John) Hartmann; son Scott; 4 grandchildren, Grant (Katy), Haley, Thomas and Mary; 2 great-grandchildren, Margot and Henry.

Mr. Gooch was preceded in death by his parents, and a son, Little Bill. 

Visitation will be held Monday, August 18, 2025, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at O’Connell Funeral Home in Hudson, WI.

A graveside committal service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery in Litchfield, IL. Rev. Gary Schwab of First Presbyterian Church in Litchfield will officiate. There will be no local visitation. Friends and family are welcome and may meet at the cemetery for the service.

Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield is assisting the family locally.

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