William "Bill" Stork

William "Wild Bill" Stork, a lifelong resident of the Toledo area who brought energy and a genuine love for people to everything he did, passed away peacefully at Hospice of Northwest Ohio on June 16, 2026, at the age of 74.

Born in Toledo on May 29, 1952, to William Stork and Bonnie Rochte, Bill grew up in the community and graduated from Clay High School. Following high school, he honorably served his country in the United States Army.

Bill was a man of strong work ethic and sharp business acumen. He spent 27 years dedicated to his work at Baron Steel before transitioning into the automotive industry. For over two decades, he was a top-performing sales professional, a career that culminated in a deeply rewarding 18-year business partnership with his son.

Beyond his professional success, Bill lived life in motion. He was an avid Ohio State fan and embraced a wide variety of passions, from camping and snowmobiling to catching a NASCAR race, listening to music, or playing a game of pool. But his true joy was found on the water. Bill loved boating and was a mainstay at the yacht club. Known to be the life of the party, he had a rare gift for connecting with people; he truly was a friend to everyone he met.

At home, Bill appreciated the quieter things as well. He had a deep appreciation for flowers and spent years cultivating them, ensuring his home and yard were always surrounded by vibrant blooms. His home was also shared with his beloved dogs, Peanut and Bella, who were his pride and joy.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; son, Brian Stork; and brother, Bobby Stork. He is survived by his children, Doug (Brittany) Stork, Ivy Villareal, and Dawn (Jason) Large; grandchildren, Paige, Gavin, Cody, Gracie, Maylee, Alec, Chandler, Kyle, Braden, and Cory; and siblings, Mike Stork, Michelle (John Avery) Thomas, Jeanette Rochte, and Rocky Rochte.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home, 501 Conant St, Maumee, on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., and on Tuesday, June 23, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. A memorial service will begin at the funeral home on Tuesday at 3 p.m., and will be followed by a celebration of life at the Elks Lodge, 139 W Wayne St, Maumee, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.