Bill Sirek

William M. “Bill” Sirek, age 70, of Belle Plaine, died unexpectedly but peacefully with his family by his side, after a prolonged treatment for cancer on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at St. Francis Regional Medical Center. Bill was born on February 3, 1954, in New Prague, to Jim S. and Arvilla J. (Tikalsky) Sirek. He graduated from Belle Plaine High School, where he was enthusiastically involved in FFA and received numerous FFA awards. Farming was part of Bill’s soul and he purchased a farm while still in high school. He married Sharon Bartels on October 29, 1977, in Belle Plaine, and the couple raised their two children on this farm, where they also grew crops and raised livestock. He lived and breathed Pioneer Power and served as Director for a period. He worked outside the home for a number of years, most recently for Gavilon Fertilizer in Shakopee.

Bill’s passions revolved around his love of farming. He travelled to farm shows all over the U.S. with his family and friends. He collected and restored tractors and two very special classic cars: A 1966 Electra Convertible, which he named “Pamela” (after Pamela Anderson because “that’s the closest I’ll ever get to her”) and a 1956 Oldsmobile Rocket, which he named “Elizabeth” after the Statler Brothers song. Music also fed his soul and he loved many genres of music from country, to polka, to rock. He was famous for KCHK blasting from his shop as he tinkered around, sang, and danced. Bill had a wonderful sense of fun and loved to tease. He was a kid at heart, loving cartoons, especially Looney Tunes “Beep Beep” and a devotion to Laurel and Hardy. His more serious side was found in an interest in history, devouring anything that dealt with J.F.K. His greatest devotion, however, was to his family and the time spent with them. His two grandchildren were the center of his universe. He was determined to beat cancer but his journey ended sooner than expected. His big heart, positive outlook, and laughter will be missed by all.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sharon of Belle Plaine; daughter, Jessica (Darrell) Eckblad of Lake Placid, FL; son, Michael Sirek & significant other, Elizabeth Deutsch of Belle Plaine; grandchildren, Douglas & Delana Eckblad; brother, Roger Sirek of Belle Plaine; many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Pioneer Hall at Pioneer Power (34605 265th Ave., Le Sueur, MN). Visitation will start at 10:00 AM and continue until service time.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.