Former Suburban Mayor Dies Of Coronavirus

WHEELING, IL — Bill Hein, 80, who served as the village president in Wheeling in the late 1970s and early '80s and "loved" the town where he spent most of his life, died on Friday after losing his battle with the new coronavirus. Hein is being remembered for his service to the village, he served as a long-time trustee, sat on the board of fire and police commissioners, and founded the village's farmers market, and also for his sense of humor, the Daily Herald reports.

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One of his favorite past-times was meeting friends at Market Square Restaurant. Touching on his father's outgoing personality and solid friendships, his son told the Daily Herald he also recalled Fourth of July parties when he was little and his dad was still with the fire department.

• Obituary: William Hein, 80, Of Wheeling
• Illinois Coronavirus Update April 11: 17,903 Cases; 597 Deaths

"They would just tell stories of the early days with how the town started and different organizations started. Always good honest ribbing among friends," he told the newspaper.

A visitation will be held Friday for Hein at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Avenue in Wheeling. The public can "drive-thru" to pay their respects between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Those attending can drive by a large window at the funeral home and be able to see Hein's casket inside and get a prayer card and see family members from a "safe distance" in the parking lot, according to the Daily Herald.

"A memorial gathering where friends and family can share hugs, stories and laughter will be held at a future date," according to the obituary posted on the Kolssak Funeral Home website.

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