William Doerfler

William (Bill) Donald Doerfler passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 20, 2022, after battling continuous heart and cancer challenges. He loved his Lord Jesus and is now resting peacefully in his loving arms.

Bill was born and raised in Lakeville and was taught by his father to hunt with a bow at a very young age. He was a skilled hunter, and it became one of the great passions in his life. Sitting in his hunting stand or looking out his window watching wildlife were one of his favorite pastimes. Family and friends always knew what was prowling around out there because Bill loved sharing what he saw. Unless, of course, it was a big buck during hunting season! When family or friends shot a deer, he was always there in a hurry to help, wanting to share in their excitement. His Dad and Uncle Phil will surely miss him this deer season.

Bill became a skilled carpenter and cabinet maker while living in Lakeville but had family connections to Crosslake and always dreamed of living up north. His dream came true in 2009 when he and the love of his life, Kerri Hedberg, made the move together. They both worked hard to make their home a place of simple comforts and rest nestled in the woods. Bill was a caretaker and grounds maintenance worker for a dear friend with rental property on the Whitefish Chain for several years. He also worked for a few area businesses doing repairs and remodels. He was known as a skilled “Jack of all trades.”

Bill is survived by his partner of 15 years Kerri Hedberg, father Butch Doerfler (Deb), sons Jeremy, Jesse (Shawna), Chris, Mike (Heather), Ben (Sally), sisters Sue Dirks (John Milan) and Patty Doerfler (Jeff Baardson), brother JJ Doerfler, 11 grandchildren and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his mother Gail and brother Tom.

Bill was a simple man with simple needs. He was also quite a jokester and loved to laugh and make others laugh along with him. Oh, how we will miss his quick wit, smart-ass comments, laugh and chuckles. Bill will be dearly missed by all who knew him.  

Bill’s ashes will be spread July 30th, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. in a private, family ceremony at his home in Crosslake.  A Celebration of Life for Bill will be held immediately following at 1:00 p.m. July 30, 2022, at the Cedar Chest in Crosslake. All are welcome to come and share their favorite memories and stories about Bill.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Crosslake.