William James “Bill” Kathol

William James “Bill” Kathol, age 74, of Papillion

January 29, 1947 – January 7, 2022

Bill was born in Hartington, NE. He was a proud and distinguished Army veteran who served in Vietnam from 1968-1970. In 1970 Bill moved to Omaha where he began his lifelong career in the drywall trade, owning and operating his successful business for nearly fifty years. Throughout his life, Bill enjoyed the company of his blended family, friends, and neighbors. He also enjoyed camping, horseback riding and Storm Chasers baseball games. Survived by his loving partner of 25 years, Linda Head, MD; his children: Jonathan (Jody Keisner) Kathol of Omaha, Jane (Troy) Brannen of Omaha, and Ted (Alyssa) Kathol of Valley; his grandchildren: Baylor and Noelle Brannen, and Lily and Amelia Kathol; Linda’s daughter, Julie (Kelly Hawk) DiGiacomo of Papillion; Julie’s children, Andrew and Lexi DiGiacomo; his siblings: JoAnn Hosch, Charles (Linda) Kathol, Allen (Lynn) Kathol, Laurie Wilwerding, Darlene Kathol, Rhea (Bob) Geary, Norma (Gary) Halstead, Lisa (Danny) Sudbeck, Tina (Mike) Coughlin, and Keith (Teresa) Kathol; Linda’s siblings: Nancy (Randy) Hanson, Walter Kujawa, and Elizabeth (Kelly) Dahl, MD; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. William was preceded in death by parents, LaVerne Kathol Sassen and James W. Kathol; and two brothers-in law.

Vigil Service: Tuesday, January 11, 2022, 7:00PM at West Center Chapel with family receiving friends from 5:00-7:00PM.
Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, January 12, 2022, 10:30AM at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 200 East 6th Street, Papillion, NE. Interment: Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Rd, Omaha, NE

Memorials may be directed to Open Door Mission.

13 Comments

  • Dennis Riesselman and Ruth Riesselman Posted January 9, 2022 12:25 pm

    Our prayers and and memories are with the family. Bill was a friend while he lived in Omaha. We send our prayers for his soul in our daily rosery. God bless you, Bill.

  • James B. Temme Posted January 9, 2022 12:38 pm

    Bill and I were in Basic Training together in Fort Lewis. Bill was one of the nicest guys in our platoon. He was also, the best athlete, scoring the maximum points (500) on the Army fitness test. My sympathy to his family and friends. I know he will be missed.

  • Cheryl Rupiper Posted January 9, 2022 4:25 pm

    My Sympathy goes out to Bill’s Family & Brother’s & Sisters! A cousin that will be missed!

  • Lynn and John Muller Posted January 9, 2022 5:17 pm

    Dearest Linda and Family. Your sad loss is ours as well. Bill was a terrific guy and loved you so very much; Linda, your loving care kept him living for many years and he appreciated you every day. We send our deepest sympathy, along with our prayers for peace during this difficult time. We love you. John and Lynn

  • Cynthia Howey Posted January 10, 2022 8:58 am

    My deepest sympathy to all the Kathol families! Bill always reminded me so much of Jim!

  • Marti Clark-Moffett Posted January 10, 2022 9:09 am

    Dr. Head, I am sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I always enjoyed visiting with him at functions. Thinking of you and the rest of the family at this time.

  • Becky Hosch Posted January 10, 2022 3:53 pm

    I’m so sorry for the loss of your partner, Dad, and Grandfather. For me he was one of two “Uncle Bill”s and my Godfather growing up. When I was little (5) I thought he was BJ Thomas, the American singer who died in 2021 and sang “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head.” The lyrics are more fitting than ever: … Raindrops keep falling on my head
    But that doesn’t mean my eyes will soon be turning red
    Crying’s not for me
    ‘Cause I’m never gonna stop the rain by complaining
    Because I’m free
    Nothing’s worrying me

  • Jim and Carla Schlingman Posted January 10, 2022 4:16 pm

    Our heart and prayers go out to all the family. May God comfort you at this time.

  • Cindy Hanssen Posted January 11, 2022 2:42 pm

    Linda, I am so sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. My deepest condolences. I enjoyed the occasional dance with him and loved your company at dance events.

  • Marvin white Posted January 11, 2022 4:50 pm

    I am just now learning of Bills passing. My sympathy goes to all the family. So much enjoyed Bill and Dr. Head making us feel “special”. Just as YOU are special. Thank goodness that you two have had eachother for as many years as the good Lord allowed. So glad that I knew him, and you have many fond memories to talk about and reflect to each other.. He is is a better place indeed. Blessings to all. Julie – Marvin Whit

  • Susan Miner Posted January 11, 2022 10:07 pm

    My sincere condolences to Julie, Linda and family, I was honored to have met him. May he rest in peace.

  • Marguerite Zart Posted January 12, 2022 2:14 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss William Kathol. He will be missed and I have very fond memories of him on the farm in Harrington Nebraska

  • Stanley Rupiper Posted January 13, 2022 4:28 pm

    My thoughts & prayers are with all of the family.

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