William “Bill” Thomas Kearney, 54, of Caledonia, Minn., passed away Friday, March 21, 2025, leaving a legacy defined by unwavering service, genuine community spirit, and deep devotion to family. Born in Viroqua, Wis., to Dennis and Bonnie Kearney, Bill was a dedicated son and the older brother to his sister Lisa Hatfield. After graduating from Viroqua High School, Bill proudly joined the National Guard, serving on active duty during Desert Storm – an early testament to his commitment to duty and sacrifice.
Bill’s generosity and involvement resonated throughout the community. He spent nearly a decade helping manage kitchen operations at St. Mary’s Grade School and enthusiastically coached youth soccer, basketball and football. He also served as an assistant coach for Caledonia’s varsity football team. Beyond these roles, Bill enjoyed his work as an Amazon delivery driver, always ready to offer a helping hand or friendly smile. In his personal time, Bill loved the slower moments of life playing solitaire and spending time with his wife Erin and their three Australian Shepherds: Leo, Cooper and Izzy. Bill also chased adventure, racing motorcycles and dirt bikes alongside his sons Sean and Noah, and sharing many afternoons with them shooting hoops on the custom basketball court in the family backyard.
Bill is survived by his loving wife Erin, sons Sean and Noah, parents Dennis and Bonnie Kearney, sister Lisa Hatfield, mother-in-law Mary (Richard) Leary (Sullivan), brother-in-law David Sullivan, and sister-in-law Sarah (Ben) Sullivan.
He was preceded in death by his father-in-law Bill Sullivan, and brother-in-law Mark Sullivan.
Bill’s kindness, humor, and steadfast commitment to family and community leave behind cherished memories for all whose lives he touched.
“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
A service for Bill will be at 11 a.m., Friday, March 28, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall. Visitation will also be from 10-11 a.m. Friday, before the service at the church. Military rites by Caledonia American Legion and the U.S. Army Honor Guard will be given at the church after the service. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Caledonia. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, assisted the family.