Peter W. "Bill" Taylor

Peter "Bill" Taylor, 87, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication.  Known for his warm smile and generous heart, he touched countless lives throughout his 87 years. 

Peter was born January 13, 1938, the son of Charles and Florence (Shear) Taylor.  On June 11, 1960, he married Fern Kamke and together they shared 51 years until Fern's death in 2011.

Peter worked for 39 years at Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton, where he took great pride in painting fire trucks until he retired at age 70.  His craftsmanship and work ethic reflected his deep commitment to his family, friends, and coworkers.

Outside of work, Peter embraced life fully.  He enjoyed gardening, puzzles, Sunday meals with family, and traditions that created lifelong memories - riding in the back of the truck to the dump, races in Shawano and Seymour, polka dancing on the fire truck, and decorating for parades.  Sundays at Grandpa's were filled with warm cinnamon rolls, grilled meals by the fire pit, and stories shared among loved ones.  Peter's life was rich with laughter and adventure: shed parties, dancing on burning pallets, late-night Country Kitchen meals, road trips, snowmobile and lawnmower rides with the grandkids, and countless moments that brought joy to those around him.  He will be remembered for his love of family, his strong sense of community, and the memories he created with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Peter is survived by his five children: Debbie Kemkes, Jeff Taylor, Donna (Dwaine) Kerk, Kelly (Adam) Scheibe, and Brian Taylor; grandchildren: Casey (Aaron), Michelle, Cory (Danielle), Jake (Kylie), and Hunter; great grandchildren: Jaidyn, Lynzi, Grace, Austin, Chase, and Bryce; goddaughter, Shelby Wessley; a brother, Kenny (Barb); a sister, Charlene Bowers; sisters-in-law: Lorraine, JoAnn, Hope, and Della; further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his wife, Peter was also preceded in death by his parents and numerous siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond Street, Appleton.  Visitation will be at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to an Alzheimer's Association of your choice.

The family would like to express their thanks to the staffs of Aseracare Hospice and Willow Lane Assisted Living for the tremendous care given to dad.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.