William Michael Fuhrer, 73, of Burlington, died Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.
Born June 11, 1953, in Morganfield, KY, he was the son of Arnold William and Evelyn Marie Brockway Fuhrer. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1971 where he played basketball and baseball and was an All State baseball player in 1969 and 1971. After high school he went to pursue baseball at William Penn College for a year before returning home to marry his high school sweetheart, Patricia Suesens. They were happily married for 53 years.
Bill worked for JI Case for 30 years, retiring in 2004.
He was a member of the Burlington Sportsman Club and an avid waterfowl hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed spending time in nature and loved camping with his family and friends. Bill looked forward to golfing with his son and grandson, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. He enjoyed coaching baseball, sharing his love of the sport with young players and helping them learn both the sport and the value of teamwork. His motto for his son and grandkids was: "Don't ever lose, make your opponent beat you". He was admired by all the players he coached. Bowling was another favorite pastime, and he proudly bowled three 300 games and an 800+ series. Above all, he treasured his family and could often be found in the stands or on the sidelines, proudly watching his children and grandchildren participate in their many activities.
Survivors include his wife, Patt Fuhrer of Burlington; sons, Michael Fuhrer of Burlington, and Brian (Jenn Dolan) Fuhrer of Mediapolis; daughter, Sarah Fuhrer of Burlington; two grandchildren, Cayson and Lyvia Fuhrer; brother, Kelvin (Ann Remick) Fuhrer of Burlington; three brothers-in-law, Rodney Pierson of Kingston, Mike (Kerry) Suesens of Panama City, FL, Steve (Karen) Suesens of Lenoir, NC and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Vicki Pierson, parents-in-law, John and Lolly Suesens, and brother-in-law, Bob Suesens
A private family burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery.
Memorials have been established for the Midwest Magic Special Olympics Activities Fund and the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.
Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.