Obituary of William Darrow

William S. "Bill" Darrow, 65, of Beach Park, IL, died on Wednesday, July 4, 2007, after a short unexpected illness. Bill celebrated his Independence Day on July 4 by smiling into the face of his personal savior, Jesus Christ. Taking His hand, Bill left this world from his home to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. He never met a stranger, if so, he parted as friends of which he had many. Bill was employed as an officer of the Waukegan Police Department from 1970-1983, taking early retirement as a Lieutenant. He then returned to his favorite trade, designing and building machinery for Abbott Laboratories. He was happiest while traveling around the country. Bill loved the outdoors, including fishing, camping, and wildlife. He also loved spending time with his family and friends, and could tell jokes for hours. Bill simply enjoyed life. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Barbara; children, Jeff (Laurie) O'Sullivan of Round Lake, IL, Tim (Terri) Anthony of Beach Park, IL, and Lisa (Joseph) Macy of Winthrop Harbor, IL; seven grandchildren, Cody, Cheyenne, Kyle, Aislynn, Alexis, Vincent, and Joe Jr.; loving mother-in-law, Helen Ray of Beach Park, IL; brothers-in-law, Danny (Donna) Ray of Beach Park, IL, and John (Lisa) Ray of Trevor, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his first father and mother, Joseph and Sophie Darrow; brother Joe Darrow; sister, Loretta, and father-in-law, Paul S. Ray. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, July 9, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, with Pastor Michael Brown of the First Baptist Church of Winthrop Harbor, officiating. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m., Monday, until the time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the First Baptist Church of Winthrop Harbor, 3001 9th St., Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096 Interment will be private for the family.