April 28, 2022 at 3:36 p.m.
William "Bill" Franz Grinstead
William "Bill" Franz Grinstead
"Wild Bill", or "The Wild Man", as he was commonly known, was born July 28, 1960 in Pulaski, Va., but lived most of his early life in Dublin, Va. Bill graduated from Pulaski County High School in 1978, where he enjoyed playing baseball, wrestling, and his greatest love, football.
After graduation, Bill worked for over 10 years as a machinist at Inland Motors (Kollmorgen). Having an adventurous spirit, Bill headed Northwest to Dutch Harbor, Alaska. He worked there for 10 years as a QC inspector on fishing boats. During his off season, Bill traveled to Rhinelander, where he eventually made his home. Over the past years, Bill has worked various jobs, most recently with Northwood's Nursery.
Bill enjoyed cooking and grilling. He tweaked recipes and created his own recipes. Bill delighted in introducing various cuisines and spices to his family and friends. Bill was most happy when entertaining his friends and family while listening to his love of Rock and Roll and country music.
Storytelling, along with his sense of humor, were among his gifts. Bill was known for combining words which fondly became "Bill-isms". Among Bill's interests and loves were NASCAR, college and professional sports in both basketball, and football (GO PACKERS!).
He was a history buff, and among his favorites were the Civil War, and World War II.
Bill is survived by his girlfriend of 25 years, Donna Barnhill, and her sweet granddaughter, Kiersten. He is also survived by his mother, Myrtle Grinstead, sister, Minniejan Krenzer, sister-in-law, Ivy Grinstead, and many nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles M. Grinstead, and a brother, Barry M. Grinstead.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Rhinelander at a future date.
Bill's ashes will be interred by the family at Highland Memory Gardens, Dublin, Va.
Memorial contributions in honor of Bill may be given to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to sign the guestbook or leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com
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