Billings, Robert

Robert Edward Billings passed away peacefully, January 21, 2011 at the age of 93, at Greentree Health and Rehabilitation Center. Bob was born in Clintonville, the son of Guy and Jennie (Carr) Billings, educated at the University of Wisconsin, and returned to Clintonville to work at The Four Wheel Drive Company, becoming Purchasing Manager at the time of his retirement. Bob is survived by his nephew Dr. Roger Cass of Rochester, New York, his wife Diane and many friends. Bob met Jane Kelly, his wife of 63 years, at the Clintonville Public Library while searching for a book. Jane was the librarian at the time and helped him find the book. That was the beginning of their loving, happy life together. Bob and Jane were a popular Clintonville couple, sharing their interest in Masonic organizations, Christ Congregational-UCC of Clintonville, Clintonville Area Historical Society, and the Clintonville Public Library. Bob was recently honored for 70 years service in the Masons. Bob was a Master Mason, Master of the Clintonville Lodge, Past Grand Master Masons in Wisconsin, 33 degree in Scottish Rite Masonry, and Past Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Wisconsin, a Director of the Wisconsin Masonic Home, and a member of the Shrine and the Eastern Star. Bob was Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Clintonville Hospital. A corridor of the Angelus Retirement Community is named “Billings Hall.” Bob was President of the Clintonville Area Historical Society and authored a book, “As We Once Were: A Pictorial History of Clintonville Wisconsin.” Bob was honored for distinguished service by The State Historical Society of Wisconsin and received the Local History Award of Merit. Bob and Jane were among the founders of the current Clintonville Public Library. Their special project was the Wisconsin Room. Jane died in 2004 with Bob at her bedside holding her hand. Bob was a jolly good fellow, a storyteller, always with a smile and a chuckle. We will miss him. A memorial service celebrating Bob Billing’s life is planned for Saturday morning April 23rd, at 11:00 A.M at the Christ Congregational United Church of Christ, Clintonville. Rev. Jill Meyer will officiate. Contributions in honor of Bob may be sent to Clintonville Public Library, Christ Congregational-UCC Clintonville, or the Clintonville Area Historical Society. The BeiL-Didier Funeral Home, Clintonville, is assisting the family.