William S. Cornell

Age 59, of Ogdensburg, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2009 after a 2 year illness. He was born on April 16, 1949 in New London, son of the late Wilfred and Helen Cornell. After graduating from New London High School, Bill joined the Army where he trained with the 82nd Airborne, Fort Bragg, N.C. He was sent to Vietnam where he became a member of a 12 man Special Forces team. He made 21 jumps behind enemy lines before being wounded. After recovery, he was sent to Fairbanks, Alaska to finish his tour of duty. Bill made his living driving semi for Valley Equipment, Edward J. Ort Sawmill and Ort Trucking. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, grilling out and dancing. On September 11, 1993, he married Jacquie Smith and she survives along with sons, Kevin and Michael Cornell, Hortonville; a daughter, Melissa (Daniel) Heiting in Little Chute; a step-son, Deneil Smith, Iola; 3 grandchildren: Blake and McKensey Bauer, Little Chute; Skylar Cornell, Hortonville; 3 step-grandsons: Daniel, Justin and Benjamin smith, Waupaca; sisters, Rosemary Hart and Kathleen Buskirk, New London; 2 special nephews, David (Duprey) Hart and Patrick Hart, New London. He is further survived by other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service for Bill will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 7:00p.m. at First Lutheran Church in Ogdensburg with Rev. Blaine Niskanen officiating. Friends may call directly at the church on Thursday from 6:00p.m. until the time of the service.