William John “Bill” Liggett, 82, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 4, 2026.
Bill was born on Sept. 9, 1943, in the second room upstairs of his beloved family farmhouse, White Plains Farm, to William and Virginia Liggett. He took great pride in sharing that story throughout his life. His family became well known in the Burlington community through their ownership and operation of Browns Lake Liggett’s Resort, The Royal Palm, and The Plush Horse.
Bill attended University of Wisconsin Whitewater and Parkside, earning his degree in business. During his college years, he worked alongside his father on weekends, building the strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.
He married Rosemary McDonald, the girl he fondly called “the one who lived next door,” in 1967. Together, they raised three beloved children, Shannon, Heather, and Carrie. Their home was always filled with love, laughter, and animals, creating a warm and welcoming place for all.
Bill was the proud owner of Liggett Insurance in Waterford, where he built lasting relationships with his clients through the personal care and attention he gave to each one. He truly enjoyed connecting with people and took pride in helping others.
A man of many talents, Bill could fix just about anything. He designed and built the home where he raised his family, right next to White Plains Farm—the very place where his life began. This was one of his proudest accomplishments.
He could be found almost every summer day mowing the lawn and tending to the land, making everything just right. He took great pride in keeping the farm beautiful—a place where family and friends could gather and feel at home. Most days, you would find him with a smile on his face out on the mower. His happiest days were spent on the farm, surrounded by his family.
Dad went through a very hard time in life when he broke his neck, which left his arm paralyzed—a life-altering change for a man who had always been active and full of hobbies. Despite this, he never gave up. Determined to find something that would lift his spirits, he took up ballroom dancing. Though he had always been a good dancer, in ballroom he truly shined—gliding across the floor with grace. He competed in many competitions and won several times, something he was incredibly proud of. He loved sharing stories of his dancing experiences with family and friends.
Bill lived life fully and enjoyed many hobbies, including golfing, hunting, horseback riding, fishing, boating, scuba diving, water skiing, and dancing. Some of the most cherished memories were the summers spent with his family at their getaway in Wisconsin Dells.
Not many people knew that Dad loved to fly. A story he and Mom often shared took place when he was first allowed to fly on his own. Mom was with him—and pregnant with their first child, Shannon. As they enjoyed their time in the air, Dad jokingly pretended there was trouble with the plane. Mom quickly became nervous, and Dad soon realized it wasn’t his best idea—especially with her being pregnant. Thankfully, they landed safely, and it became a story they would laugh about for years.
Above all, Bill treasured time with his children and grandchildren. He had a deep love for animals, especially his dogs that were his constant companions. Whether sharing an ice cream cone, cooking meals for them, or bringing them along to the office, his bond with them was unmistakable. He also loved caring for his horses and spending time in the barn, a passion he shared with his children and grandchildren. Dad also had three goats that kept everyone entertained and that he absolutely adored. He always said he got the goats to keep the horses company—but we all knew those goats were really for him. He even built a special climbing tower that brought joy not only to the goats, but also to all the grandkids who loved watching and playing alongside them.
Bill was a kind and caring man who always wanted those around him to feel safe, supported, and loved. His presence brought comfort and strength to his family, whom he cherished deeply.
He is survived by his loving children, Shannon Liggett (Kathy), Heather Liggett, and Carrie Liggett (Jim); and his cherished grandchildren, Dana Radojevic, Lora Radojevic, and Samantha Liggett.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Virginia Liggett, and his former wife, Rosemary Liggett.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on April 19, 2026, at Integrity Celebrations Center, 2789 Browns Lake Dr., Burlington. A memorial service will take place promptly at 1 p.m., followed by an open house celebration from 1:30 until 4 p.m.
In honor of Bill’s love for animals, memorial donations may be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice.
Services have been entrusted to Integrity Funeral Services. For online condolences, please visit www.integrityfunerals.net.