William (Bill) F.T. Kerssen, Jr.

William (Bill) F.T. Kerssen, Jr., age 73, passed away on Saturday, April 26th, in Orlando, FL. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 1st, at the Carlin Funeral Home in Fosston with the Rev. Stephanie White officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service. Share your favorite memories and enjoy some refreshments. Everyone is invited to the graveside committal service following the service (about 3:00 p.m.) at Bethel Cemetery, rural Winger, MN. Arrangements are with Carlin Family Funeral Service of Fosston and messages of condolence may be shared at www.carlinfuneral.com.

Bill lived a life devoted to service – service to his country, his community, his faith, and above all, his family.

A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Bill served honorably achieving the rank of Sergeant and completing a tour overseas in Germany. After his military service, he remained committed to giving back, volunteering with Straight Street Orlando to support their mission of feeding the homeless.

Bill was deeply involved in faith-based communities, actively participating in groups such as Fellowship Riders, the I Am Second movement, and the Christian Motorcycle Association. His life was a reflection of his strong values and generous spirit.

Family was the heart of Bill’s world. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren – especially during camping trips and tubing adventures on the Rainbow River. Summers in northern Minnesota with loved ones were among his favorite memories.

Bill’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. His spirit will live on in the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lorraine Kerssen; his infant brother Roger Kerssen, and his sister, Linda Sisell.

Bill is survived by his beloved children: his son Matthew Kerssen; daughters Marissa Ryan (Brendan), and Alicia Kerssen; and his “bonus son”, Ryan Longtin. He was a proud grandfather to Kara Longtin, Heather Ilchuk (Dakota), Skylar Simpson, Marlee Larson, Alexa Larson, Sebastian Caez-Kerssen, Xavier Caez-Kerssen, Lacey Ryan, and Cole Ryan. He is also survived by his siblings Elaine (Keith Mack), Laurie Bursheim (Bob), and Mark Kerssen (Sue); as well as many cherished nieces, nephews and dear friends – including Frank and Cookie Knight.