William  “Bill” Fredrick Casolari, age 83, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday evening, August 12, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

      He was born November 13, 1942, in Flora, the son of Albert Barto and Alma E. (Rentz) Casolari Sr.  He was united in marriage to Chelsea O’Brian on June 6, 1961, in Fairfield, and together they have shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. 

      Bill will be remembered for his humble spirit, cheerful heart, generous nature, and wonderful sense of humor.  He loved telling jokes and was always looking for a way to make someone smile or laugh.  Bringing joy to others came naturally to him.

      A talented and accomplished musician, Bill could play more than 40 instruments, and his love for music was a lifelong passion.  When he was just 16 years old, he visited Nashville Tennessee, where he met “The Country Gentleman” Chet Atkins.  Although his musical talents later brought him many job offers there, Flora was always his home and the place where he chose to remain. 

      He spent much of his career working as a recording engineer and musician for Crusade Enterprises and recorded Alison Krauss’ first album when she was 14, and also had the opportunity to work with Tammy Harris on her albums.  Bill was first-chair violinist in the Southern Illinois University Carbondale symphony orchestra.  Bill was involved in many bands throughout the years, including George Keller’s “Kopy Kats”, as well as the “Downbeats” and “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”  While playing with “Ain’t Misbehavin’” Bill and his fellow band members had the opportunity to open for Marty Stuart at the Clay County Fair.  Throughout the years, he shared his musical gifts with others by teaching many students at Samuel Music in Effingham and encouraging their own love of music.  Some of his happiest moments were spent playing music with his best friend, Henry Gill.

      Bill was also a dedicated employee of NAL for 17 years.  Away from work and music, he enjoyed camping, traveling, sports cars, sitting around the fire pit, and spending time with those he loved.  He was an avid wrestling fan, and when wrestling came on, everything else stopped.

      Above all, Bill treasured his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved cat, Tara.  Bill’s music, laughter, kindness, and generous spirit touched many lives, and the memories he created through his love of family, friendship, and music will be cherished for years to come.

      He is survived by his wife: Chelsea Casolari of Flora; a daughter: Tammy (Chip) Venable of Flora; sisters: Gloria Eskew of Kennett, Missouri and Shirley Park of Steeleville; a granddaughter: Mandy (Kevin) Meyer of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; 2 great-grandchildren: Sophia Meyer and Andrew Meyer, both of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; nieces and nephews: Dawn (Ed) James, Gary Eskew, Robert (Jeanne) Robinson, Debbie Bartlett, Sandy Homer, Jani Musgrave, and Linda Robinson; many great nieces and great nephews; and his lifelong best friend: Henry (Barbara) Gill.

      He was preceded in passing by his parents; siblings: Albert Casolari Jr., Elvera Pierson and Barbara Sims; and brothers-in-law: Clifford Eskew, Ray Park, and Dean Sims.

      A graveside ceremony and interment will take place at 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Elmwood Cemetery in Flora with Henry Gill officiating.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family for expenses or Residential Hospice, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.