William "Bill" Burwell, 86, of Urbana, was called home to meet his Lord and savior at 11:49 a.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2015 at Champaign-Urbana Nursing and Rehab Center in Savoy. A visitation will be held Sunday, January 11th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana. The Urbana and St. Joseph Masonic Lodges will perform Masonic rites Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 12th at the funeral home, with minister Bret Hammond officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery in Mayview.

Mr. Burwell was born August 22, 1928 in Ivesdale, Illinois to parents Ardie and Mayme (Ray) Burwell. He married the love of his life, Helen Perkins, June 12, 1948 in Arcola, Illinois; she survives. Also surviving are children: Richard Burwell (Paula), of St. Joseph, Illinois, Allen Burwell (Pam), of Granbury, Texas, and Teresa Marsh (fiancAC., Tom Twigg), of Mahomet, Illinois. Mr. Burwell had six grandchildren: Jimmy Burwell (Lisa), of Granbury, Texas, Tyler Marsh (Brittany), of St. Joseph, Illinois, Laura Marsh (Douglas Martin), of St. Joseph, Illinois, Christy Nivison, of Urbana, Illinois, Susan Burwell, of Texas, and Anna Burwell, of Mattoon, Illinois. Bill also had seven great-grandchildren and six great great grandchildren. His parents preceded him in death.

Mr. Burwell worked as a fireman for the University of Illinois for 11 years. He then worked for the University at the Physical Plant as a locksmith for 20 years before retiring.

Bill was a member of the Webber Street Church in Urbana, a lifetime member of the Champaign Moose Lodge, and a member of both the Urbana and St. Joseph Masonic Lodges.

Memorial contributions may be made to Carle Hospice Foundation or Alpha-Care Professionals. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.