I am sending condolences and best wishes to Rosemary and the family.  Bill was my basketball coach for two years from 1967-69.  He treated me with respect and taught me a lot.  We remained friendly ever thereafter.  It was always a pleasure to see him.  Years later, when I was a Mayo Clinic doctor and he was a volunteer, it was always a pleasure to run into him in the lobby and chat briefly.  I have missed seeing him since I retired in November 2019.  I will always remember his ready smile and his beautiful baritone voice.

My condolences from New Mexico to Bill’s family and friends. I would periodically run into “Coach” in the Mayo subways where he volunteered, giving directions, and after he got over the surprise of seeing me after 25 years we would greet each other regularly. As a B-squad basketball player at the brand new Mayo High School I learned much about perseverance, but not about shooting free throws with my eyes closed as I couldn’t make them with my eyes open often enough. He was always younger than his years and I very much keep with me the lessons he taught as a coach all these years later. What an impact he had on a wide range of people.  Thanks, Coach. 

Dear Fessler Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  Mr Fessler was certainly a memorable man and always joyful.  Be assured of my prayers for you all during this time.  Sincerely, Darcy Maggio

I was sad to hear my old RCC coach had died. We had a lot of fun and Bill was a huge part of it. You guys are in our thoughts. 

Bill was friend of all the golf pros at Soldiers Field Golf Course for many years.  From Bumper Westrum to Tim Higgins to Mark Olson to me.  Ray Keller too, probably.  

Bill and Tim held many french fry summits in the restaurant they enjoyed and found mutually beneficial.  His encouragement and support of the golf operation for all the golf pros made him a bright spot in any day.  Bill's smile is one of the things I'll remember, it was always there with his greeting and it always made seeing him a pleasure.

It's easy to see where his son, Steve, developed his love for the game, his dad sure loved golf!  And he was a very good golfer. His grandson Trey is an excellent golfer who only beat his grandpa after many attempts. Bill took pride, and joy, in the fun they had on the golf course.  

On behalf of many golfers, we offer our sincerest condolences on Bill's passing, He will be missed by many at Soldiers Field Golf Course.

David Richardson, PGA Golf Professional

Soldiers Field Golf Course

My memories of Coach/Mr. Fessler...Drivers ed, spring of 71, he canceled me for the hour on the "hill" on the drivers range, and then a few days later, on a clover leaf entrance to Hwy 63, north of the airport....he stretched out his left leg, and punched the gas pedal...Looking back later, what a hoot!...I became the basketball team manager, with Chris Moertel, then on my own, with Gordy Rupkalvis...As the A team manager, always helped out the B squad  then...I never met him after I left high school, but, I am sure, if he knew of my 10 year life with the Wisconsin DMV, as a drivers license examiner, he would have had a great laugh...thought of him more than once on a drivers skill test....chuckling....RIP coach.

Our condolences to the entire Fessler Family:

  While at Mayo High School I was very fortunate to have Mr. Fessler as a teacher/ mentor all through high school.  He was easily one of the most important teacher/coach that I had the opportunity to learn from. The life lesson's that he taught me I still use today when I'm teaching and coaching. I will always have great memories of Mr. Fessler. 

God bless my dear friend, I will miss you. 

We are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing.  Such a wonderful man.  A smile as warm and bright as the most sunny day.  His joy when talking about his family was incredible. He will be missed.  We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.  May you find peace in the many memories you have, knowing he’s always near, in your heart. 

Rosie, Joni and I want you to know that we are so sorry for you and your family. We have known each other since 1966, when Mayo opened, and. Bill and I started teaching and coaching together. Bill became a friend very quickly, and brought me into the coaches group right away. He was like my mentor, and I always looked up to him and asked his advice on coaching. Even though I was eleven years younger, he treated me as an equal, and showed me respect. The best times we had together were the lunch breaks when he and I played racket ball in the wrestling room. We had so many laughs and always played hard because we both thought we were athletes, and better than each other. If I won he’ always remind me that he was 11 years older with bad knees and back etc... I will always treasure our times together, and how much I learned from him.

joni and I remember our times together mostly at Thatchers parties. We were always attracted to you. 

Rosie, I know Bill loved you and your 3 children, because he spoke of you whenever we were together. We love you guys, and treasure our memories.

Lorne and Joni Grosso

Laurie and Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. It has been years but I remember your stories of your dad. He always came across as a wonderful father and person.

With deepest sympathy and prayers,

Konnie

My condolences to the Fessler Family:

I had the opportunity to play for Coach Fessler in basketball in 9th and 10th grade, football in 11th and 12th grade, and football at RSJC for two years. He and Coach Kraft were easily the most important coaches that I had the opportunity to work with. Fess was a great technical coach but more importantly was able to help me establish life goals and put in the work to reach them. I was able go on to become a high school teacher and coach for 10 years and then worked as a high school principal for 25 years. I like to think that perhaps I may have been able to pass on some of the qualities that Coach Fessler helped me develop.

Thanks for sharing your husband / father / grandfather with me!

Craig McCallum, Mayo Class of 1972

Dear Laurie,  So sorry to hear of your dad's passing.  I always enjoyed him as such a nice guy and easy going even though at that age we would never admit that outloud, right?  May he rest in peace and may your memories of him last forever. 

Thoughts & prayers to the family of Bill Fessler. So sorry for your loss. He was my drivers Ed teacher back in 1970. Cannot say enough how he impacted my driving skills! I can remember his teaching as though it was yesterday. Talk about him often, lasting impact to say the least. 

I really enjoyed the time I spent with Bill as a basketball camp attendee, worker, and player while at RCC.  Bill talked a lot about life with us, shared funny stories at just the right time, and always talked about family being most important.  I wish the best to Bill’s family during this time.  

Jamie Slavin 

Sincere condolences to the Fessler family.  Coach was very instrumental in my high school days.  Driver ed, basketball, football, and phy ed have many memories of his great ability to work with so many at Mayo High and beyond.  I recall seeing him on the golf course and at other times around town after he retired.  His constant smile was always so refreshing, but a "quiet" toughness that helped me as a growing coach.  I was so grateful when he asked me to assist at a summer basketball camp at RCTC.  He was always willing to help in any way asked, and I will miss his presence that helped make Rochester a community worth being a great place to live and raise a family.

Rosie and family,

We were so sad to hear the news of Bill’s passing. We extend our deepest sympathies to you. I (Dawn) will miss him teasing me about too much stuff in my garage! He had a great sense of humor, a terrific green thumb and was the kind of guy you just enjoyed chatting with. 

Rosie, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

love,

The Dubbels

Rosemary & Family,

I am so sorry for your loss.  Bill was like a second father to me.  He was my basketball coach when I was in 9th & 10th grade and my position coach in football in 11th & 12 grade.  He was also my P.E. teacher & my driver's ed. teacher.  One of the most important gifts he taught me as a driver was, "The right of way doesn't do you any good if you are dead."  A lesson that I continue to heed to this day.

Bill and I had lunch once a year for a number of years.  He never allowed me to pay!  One year I tried to get there early to make sure the waitress understood that I was going to pay.  Of course, when she met Bill she was smitten and I still could not pick up the check.  The only way I could pay him back for all the life lessons that he gave me was to gift him chocolates.  (Thanks for that info, Rosemary).

He wasn't just my old coach.  He was my friend.

I have not had a vaccine yet so I won't be there on Thursday.  I am so sorry.  I will be there in spirit.

Pete Geist - Mayo Class of 1969

Wishing you comfort, peace and hope in this time of sadness.  Bill not only taught me about the game of basketball but shared many life lessons at RCC camps (he supported many young women and men in the sport), so I celebrate his life well-lived.  I wish you all warm memories and peace. With deepest sympathy to the entire Fessler family.  Kirsten (aka Jake)

My deepest condolences to the Fessler family. 

We played football and basketball for Coach Fessler at Mayo. We responded to his motivation to be better. But his true genius was developing and teaching schemes that worked. Our teams consistently outperformed our skills, and we grew.  We are proud to have played for Coach Fessler. 

My deepest condolences to the entire Fessler family.  As a kid I was able to attend his summer basketball camps and always loved his enthusiasm for life!  Years later - I would see him at Mayo when he volunteered and his smile would light up the hallways.  He will be missed!! 

Dear Fessler Family-

My condolences to your entire family. I have many fond memories of Bill when he coached with my dad, Neal Davis, at Mayo High School’s first years. There were many coaches meetings at our house with serious film watching and great conversations. Blessed be his memory. 
Jean Davis

Dear Steve, 

My deepest and sincere condolences to you and your family.  I had the utmost respect and admiration for your dad.  We always enjoyed our times together. During my playing days, he always called me Sweet William!  After playing days, we always talked about each other’s families, and of course, our golf games.  I will miss Wild Bill!  RIP Coach!

Bill Canfield 

My deepest condolences to the family, you are in my thoughts as prayers.  He was a wonderful coach as well as a person.  I have so many wonderful memories.  He will be greatly missed. 

Oh Rosie I am sorry to read this tonight.  I know you and Bill were best friends.  I am so sorry for your loss hon.  I think of you often.  Prayers for you and your family.  Sending Love and Hugs.

Kelly Haase

Dear Fessler family,

I had the privilege of learning to drive under the guidance of Mr. Fessler, the teacher.  Coach Fessler taught me to be on time for basketball practice by running until I learned how to tell time. “Fess” the coach and later friend, taught me to take the gift of athletics seriously @ RCC.  His unique ability to push you to be your best and make you want to win and make him proud of you, made a huge difference in my life.  I had several good coaches in college, but none knew how to motivate like Fess did.  Thanks for sharing him with so many students at whose lives he touched in a very meaningful way.  Well done Coach!

I had the pleasure to take several classes offered by Mr. Fessler while I attended Mayo HS (class of 1993). Life Sports I and II. Weight Training. Mr. Fessler was an inspiring and thoughtful teacher who really lit a fire under me, which is even more impressive because I don’t remember him saying much. During weight training class, he said something one time to me and my friend: “If you are going to be in here all semester, you might as well try to get your name on the record board.” That one sentence challenge drove us for a long time as we tried to beat the pull up record. I think my name made it onto the record board briefly, but Mr Fessler had lit a fire under everyone in the room and they were also trying to be the best they could be. It was truly one of the best times in my life. 

My condolences to Mr. Fessler’s family. May he Rest In Peace, and I hope you are comforted by the fact that he helped shape me as someone who has taken fitness and health seriously my whole life. I am still trying to be the best version of myself I can be. 

Deepest condolences to the entire Fessler family. May you find comfort in all of the wonderful memories you have of Bill's life. Bill was our 10th grade basketball coach at Mayo (taught me to drive a car as well). What I remember, like it was yesterday, is how "tough and demanding" Coach Fessler was - in a very productive and useful way (I'm certain I didn't always think it was productive and useful). Just two years later - we found ourselves with a pretty good high school team playing in the state tournament. I would give Bill a fair amount of credit for setting a solid foundation for "how" the 1980 team played - the toughness we played with - and our willingness to always play for each other. It was never about any one of us as individuals. Ironically enough, Wally Brunswold - our high school coach - carried that same belief system, so the learnings were never wasted. Thank you for sharing Bill with the rest of us - we are all better for it. RIP Coach. I'm grateful our paths crossed.  

Hi Rosie, Steve and Family,

What a wonderful man Bill was.  I loved him as our sophomore basketball coach at Mayo HS.  The combination of his toughness and sense of humor was very impactful during my formative years.  During the winter breaks in my college years at UW-La Crosse Bill allowed me and coach with him.  That was my first experience at the HS level which I am still grateful for.  I remember one time he told me that I could coach the team for the 1st quarter but,  I couldn't play the starters and I had to get all of the rest of the 10 players in the game.  I don't recall doing much coaching but learned quickly about player rotation.  What a thrill!  Later that year, the team came to La Crosse to play Logan HS.  I naturally went to the game. Coach waved at me to come and sit on the bench with him.  Later in the game Coach gets his 2nd technical foul and was kicked out.  He looked at me, smiled and said "Take over."  When I took over we were down 9 points and ended up getting beat by 3 points.  I told him after the game, "If you would have got kicked out a little sooner we would have won".  Hilarious.  We laughed about this many times as I had the great privilege of coming back to Mayo HS and working with Bill in the PE department.  While golfing at a fundraiser at Willow Creek golf course, though I wasn't in the same group as Bill when he stroked a hole in one (group behind), I could hear him and his group hollering and carrying on.  What a day! Bill led a life of quality.  I feel so thankful, as I'm sure we all do, that he was part of our life.  Blessings to all of you.

Mark and Cheryl Kieffer

So sorry to hear of Coach Fesslers passing. Of all the basketball coaches I had, he was the best; tough but fair. He taught me how to be successful at whatever you do and for that I owe him a lot. Thanks Coach!!

I'll always appreciate Mr. Fessler as being an effective and patient driving instructor at Mayo High School. His comments on my driving, while never verbose, still surface from time to time. The last time I spoke with him was when I saw him while I was riding bicycle near Viola Road a few years ago. I recognized him from a distance by his gait, and had a wonderful conversation with him. He had to have been one of my favorite teachers in high school as his was just about the only class I never skipped.

Mr. Fessler will always have a special place in my heart. I played on his Mayo girls' golf team from 1981 - 1985. Not only was he a great coach, but he was a great guy. He welcomed girls who had never played golf before onto the team, and just wanted them to learn to love the game like he did. For the varsity team, he gave excellent instruction and also support in what can be a frustrating game. When I was a senior, I had had a great season, but had two terrible holes at the Regional Tournament. My heart was broken, and I could tell how much Mr. Fessler felt and empathized with my pain. I will always remember him as a kind, funny, and compassionate friend. 

Steve, Rosie & Fessler Family: Was so sad to see the news of Bill's passing. I hold fond memories of coming down to work RCC Basketball camp and spending time and learning from Bill. What a true educator and advocate he was for so many players and students over the years. His impact as a coach and teacher had profound impact on me and those he worked with. What a life well lived. Bet he is already on a golf course or in a gym in heaven, with one of those slushy drinks! Draw strength in your faith, family, and friends. Sending prayers from Colorado.......Dave Thorson

When I think of Bill I smile and laugh. He was such a funny, kind, and smart man.  He made a huge impact on me. I worked at the Brass Lantern in the late 90's.One day Bill and his golfing buddies came in for lunch. I went over to his table to say Hi, he stood right up and gave me a hug. He somehow could tell I was having a bad day. After they left he came back in and handed me a yellow rose and with another hug and said it will get better. I will never forget him for that!!!!!!!!!!!  My thoughts are with you Lynn and the rest of your family.

Some of my fondest memories are of Coach Fessler. As one of his players, he was always straight and fair with me. After high school, when our paths would intersect, he always greeted me with his huge smile, hand on my shoulder and firm handshake. In the early 90’s, I believe, I was in his 4some at Willow Creek for a youth basketball fundraiser. I was asking him about how he acquired such a love of golf. He talked about his mother sparking that interest, put the ball on the tee and hit a hole in one. We screamed, cried and laughed all at the same time. He was a great influence on my life. My love to the Fessler family on behalf of the Lund family.

Back in the old days, when driver's education was part of the school curriculum, I learned everything I know from Mr. Fessler.  I can only imagine the stories he shared with you all about some of the students he worked with - pretty sure he wasn't convinced I was ever going to be a safe driver, but I did learn, and 45 years later, still think of him every time I check my side mirrors (and adjust me seat, and check the rear-view mirror).  

Hoping all the good memories shared in the coming days, as well as the many you have, help to comfort you.   

I am sad that Mr. Fessler has passed away. He was an awesome coach and always brought the best out of his players. Bill you will be missed.