William J. Kanthack

William “Bill” Kanthack, age 75, of Winona, Minnesota, died unexpectedly at his home on April 29, 2026.

He was born on June 20, 1950, to Edward “Eddie” and Irene “Billie” (Gehrke) Kanthack, alongside his twin brother Warren. The twins were two of five children born to Eddie and Billie. Bill shared a special bond with his older sister Linda, who was both mentor and dear friend; his twin Warren, his other half and partner in crime; younger sister Bobbie, with whom he shared endless laughter and silliness; and younger brother John, whom he once told to “get lost” but who later became his favorite hunting and fishing companion. He deeply loved his parents and siblings and cherished the gifts they brought into his life.

From his father, Bill learned to thrive outdoors, appreciate what he was given, and respectfully harvest food from the land. From his mother, he gained a lifelong love of cooking, resourcefulness with simple ingredients, and the joy of sharing good food with others. While he loved hunting and fishing, nothing brought him greater happiness than giving to others.

Bill was a talented artist who could sit and draw for hours. He created detailed wildlife scenes, loving portraits of family and friends, and plans for future projects he hoped to build someday. He kept a cherished small collection of his work.

He graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1970 and briefly studied drafting. He later married the love of his life, Vickie, and together they welcomed their daughter Stephanie, whom he affectionately called his “favorite daughter.”

Bill was an extraordinary teacher and father. He instilled in Stephanie a love of learning and made every lesson fun. He read to her so often that she could recite pages from memory, delighting in correcting him when he intentionally read the wrong line. He taught her everything from telling time and tying shoes to playing chess and tying fishing lures, always encouraging her to be silly and find joy in every task. Their bond was unbreakable—forever best friends “Captain Marble” and “The Kid.” He even laughed when he discovered a Post-it note on his wall where his mounted walleye had hung, explaining that the fish had “decided to move to Steph’s house for a while.”

As “Papa B,” Bill was deeply loved by his grandchildren, Jace and Kaelyn. His influence lives on in their shared left-handedness, their kindness toward others, and their love of animals. He was their driving instructor, diaper changer, snack maker, and lifelong mentor. He was incredibly proud of them and happily told their stories to anyone who would listen.

Bill had a light that extended far beyond his family. Known for greeting everyone with a warm smile, an iced tea in hand, and his signature “How ya doin’?!”, he made strangers feel seen and valued. He opened his heart to those in need and reminded everyone that good people still exist. He spent his career in the service industry and retired after more than 20 years in the maintenance department at Watkins Inc.

A man of deep faith, Bill was generous with his love and steadfast in his support of others. He served as an usher and trustee at Calvary Baptist Church, where his spiritual gifts of helping and showing mercy shone brightly. His favorite verse was Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.”

He loved meaningful conversations and quiet service—whether with a paintbrush or broom in hand, or by driving church members to appointments, services, and events. Though no one is perfect, Bill came beautifully close. As he entered heaven, the Lord surely said, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord.”

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his twin brother, Warren Kanthack; and brothers-in-law Paul Nelton and Don Heyer.

He is survived by his sisters, Linda Kanthack and Bobbie Heyer; his brother, John Kanthack; his daughter, Stephanie Kanthack (Brice Losinski); grandchildren, Jace Carney and Kaelyn Carney; nieces, Tina Nelton, Kara Kanthack, and Christina Kanthack; nephews, Tony Nelton, Alex Kanthack, Edward John Kanthack, and Ryan (Angela) Kanthack; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. 

A service of remembrance will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, 676 W. Sarnia St., Winona, on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10 AM followed by the service at 11 AM with Pastor Adam Burge officiating. Fellowship will follow the service.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Bill’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.