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William Brege, born on April 10, 1954, and passing on Nov. 9, 2026, lived a life that was as warm, lively, and memorable as the many stories he helped create.
He was married to Deborah Sehi on May 27, 2017, and together they shared a life built on love, laughter, and the kind of companionship that makes every day feel a little more meaningful. William treasured his family deeply, and he was especially proud of his children, Nicholas (Amy), Melany (Adam) Clayton, and Ben Sehi, son-in-law Jordan Byelich. He also held close the memory of his daughter, Jill Ann Byelich, who preceded him in death. His love extended to his grandchildren, Tristan, Nathan, John, Nolan, Logan, and Caleb, each of whom brought joy to his life and gave him plenty of reasons to smile. He is also survived by his brother Ralph (Janet), his sisters Suzie (Randy) Thompson, Jane Connon (Todd), and Marjorie (George) Marlow, along with his sisters-in-law Judy and Liz. William was preceded in death by his parents, Myron and Evelyn Brege, and his brothers Paul and Gordon, first wife Diane Brege, who surely welcomed him with the same family spirit he carried throughout his life.
William had a wide range of interests, and he pursued them with enthusiasm and a sense of fun that matched his personality. He loved hunting and fishing, and he appreciated the peace, patience, and occasional surprise that came with both. He was also a talented musician who mastered the guitar and piano, and he used that talent not just to play music, but to entertain people and bring them together. Music was one of the many ways he expressed himself, and he had the rare ability to make it feel effortless, as though the guitar or piano were simply extensions of his humor and heart. He enjoyed the Eagles club and the camaraderie that came with being around others, especially when there was good conversation, good company, and a good laugh to be had.
William also gave back to his community as a volunteer firefighter in Alcona, a role that reflected his sense of responsibility and his willingness to help others
Those who knew William will remember his sharp wit, his easy smile, and the way he could keep a conversation going with equal parts humor and sincerity. He had the rare comedic instinct of knowing exactly when to tease, when to listen, and when to deliver the line that made everyone laugh harder than they meant to. He was a jokester in the best possible way, never cruel, always clever, and usually just a little too pleased with himself when a punchline landed. That was part of his charm. He did not just tell jokes. He made life feel lighter.
William is at McWilliams Funeral Home where family will receive friends on Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 3 p.m. until the time of the prayer service at 6 p.m. Visitation will resume on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at St. Anne Catholic Church All Saints Parish from 11 a.m. until the time of mass at noon with Fr. Basil Lek officiating. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Black River.