William "Bill" E. Stripp Jr.

William "Bill" E. Stripp Jr, 54, of Crystal Lake, passed away on October 22, 2024. He was born on August 23, 1970 in Elgin, IL. Bill Stripp was born, raised, and a lifelong resident of Crystal Lake, Illinois. A devoted husband of 31 years to his wife Helen. A proud and loving father to Andrew (wife Juliet) and Brian (partner Cedric). A loyal son to Bill Senior and June Stripp of Crystal Lake and son-in-law to Barbara and Bob Bond of Barrington. An incredible brother to Laura Capinha (husband Curt Capinha), brother-in-law to Charlotte and Matt Helms and a joyous and fun uncle to Alice, Clara, Anna, and Victor.

Family and friends were the center of Bill’s life, and nothing made him happier than having everyone together. Whether it was a good board game in the dining room or cooking out on his Traeger grill for a group of 60+, he was always up for a heartfelt conversation or a fun moment.

Bill was Scoutmaster Emeritus with Troop 347 and was so proud of his two sons when they made Eagle rank. He was a true mentor to many youths in his beloved Crystal Lake community. He loved spending time outdoors camping and hiking. Whenever he had the opportunity to hike Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, he grabbed it. Climbing up Mt. Baldy and watching the sunrise on top of the Tooth of Time were some of his most loved memories.

Soccer was another passion of Bill’s, both in playing and coaching. He coached for many years with the Crystal Lake Soccer Federation and played for the Fox Valley Hammers. In addition to scouting and soccer, another favorite activity was the Crystal Lake Cardboard Cup Regatta in which he had several award-winning boats including: The Mucky Ducks, A firetruck, Thomas the Tank Engine, Norbert the Dragon, a pirate ship, and Perry the Platypus.

An outstanding orator, trusted confidant, social butterfly, resolute friend, wonderful father, and kind soul, Bill’s presence will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 16th 2024 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Crystal Lake. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Scout Troop 347, 76 W. Crystal Lake Ave., Crystal Lake, IL 60014.