William "Bill" Hoekelman
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William "Bill" Hoekelman, 78, husband of Margaret (Campbell) Hoekelman, died at home in Lexington, KY on May 31, 2021 after a demanding struggle with cancer. In brighter times, the two met at Cabot House, Sydney, Nova Scotia where Bill lived while working with Koppers Engineering, Pittsburgh, PA and Marg was employed by Canada Health, a federal government department. Bill and Margaret married March 31, 1973 at Holy Redeemer Church with dinner at the storied Isle Royale Hotel, Sydney. Bill grew up in Youngstown, OH and Ogden Dunes, IN, the middle child of the late Harold and Ruth (Pettie) Hoekelman. Margaret remains the grateful daughter of the late Rod and Caroline (Burke) Campbell, Sydney, Nova Scotia. Sadly, Bill's death was preceded by the loss of Carl, 40, an only child. An exuberant individual, Carl died in Pittsburgh, PA January 30, 2019 after a bold, lengthy challenge with glioblastoma, a disease that never defined him. Friends across the country rallied to support Carl, and in so doing, unwittingly bolstered his deeply appreciative parents. Bill is survived by sister, Carol Moore and brother, Tom Hoekelman of Denver, CO. Bill will also be remembered by his nephew, Brian, four nieces, Sarah, Erica, Courtney and Meredith and their families, whom Bill visited regularly until the pandemic. The Hoekelmans relocated to Lexington, KY when Bill joined Hotwork as manager for ferrous industries in 1982. There was considerable travel in the U.S. and Canada for Bill, as well as stints in Australia, England, India, Italy, Korea, Mexico and Taiwan. An unassuming guy, Bill was a welcome reveler during vacations and reunions in Nova Scotia, New York and Indiana Dunes. A road warrior and avid reader, Bill's lifestyle involved running, sailing and downhill skiing; in later years, he focused on hiking and cycling. At Bill's request, no visitation is planned. A private inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Lexington, KY. A donation to any Habitat for Humanity or a local charity of one's choice is welcome. Alternatively, surprise someone by planting bulbs or flowers, mowing a yard, repairing a fence or hanging outdoor lights, as Bill was known to do. To share a remembrance of Bill or offer condolences to his family, please visit milwardfuneral.com.