William Francis Bey

William F. Bey, age 92, of Barrington, Illinois passed peacefully, surrounded by family on February 1, 2026. Bill was born on January 14, 1934, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the son of Frank and Gertrude Oettinger Bey.

On November 11, 1961, Bill married the love of his life, Barbara, and together they shared more than 64 years of marriage filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering partnership and support.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his eight children Bob (Lisa) Bey, Susan (Rick) Gentry, Jim (Maria) Bey, Michael Bey, Cheryl (Marc) Favaro, Julie (John) Vandenbark, Billy (Breeana) Bey, and Katie (Chris) Garber; and his sister Pat Anderson. He was a proud grandfather to 24 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; all of whom brought him immense joy. Bill is preceded in death by his parents.

Bill had quite a dynamic career beginning at the early age of nine when he worked as a paperboy, bowling pin setter and delivering groceries on his bicycle. He earned a full-ride scholarship to Northwestern University, graduating in three years with a degree in Business Administration in 1954. Bill began his career as an auditor with Peat Marwick before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1955. He served two years, primarily stationed in Mannheim, Germany, which gave him the opportunity to explore much of Europe.

Following military service, Bill returned to work as an auditor, and one day at General Mills, he noticed a young woman in a bright yellow dress. He asked her for a date to play miniature golf, and quickly realized that Barbara was “the one.” A bit more than a year later, they were married.

With Barbara’s support, Bill built a distinguished career in accounting and finance, spanning roles in audit, mortgage banking, and treasury, before ultimately becoming a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch. He led the opening of Merrill Lynch’s Barrington office until his retirement. He was a lifelong learner, earning a law degree (DePaul) and an MBA (University of Chicago) while working full-time and raising a family.

Bill and Barbara shared a passion for travel and had many international adventures. Together they visited more than 40 countries, including Egypt, Japan, Vietnam, North Korea, Russia, as well as many countries throughout Europe and South America. Bill even fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting Antarctica, completing his tour of all seven continents.

He also loved his hometown of Barrington, where he raised his family and served his community in many ways, from the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary President, Knights of Columbus, and Barrington Police Pension Board. Bill was a member of Saint Anne Catholic Church for 55 years.

Known as a wonderful storyteller and an avid reader, Bill had a gift for bringing moments to life. He cherished watching his children and grandchildren pursue their sports, music, and other passions, was a devoted Cubs fan, and treasured every opportunity to spend time with family.

Bill will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, wisdom, boundless curiosity about the world, and steadfast devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.

The family extends special thanks to the compassionate staff at Praireview at The Garlands for their loving care and support during Bill’s final days.

A Catholic service will be celebrated on February 13, 2026 at Saint Anne Catholic Church in Barrington with visitation at 9:00 am and Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 am. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.