William "Bill" Stanfel Obituary

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William “Bill” C. Stanfel, 85, of Fargo, ND and Cotton Lake, Rochert, MN, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, at the Fargo VA Medical Center, surrounded by his family and friends, under the compassionate care of Hospice.

Born on February 4, 1940, in Canton, IL to August and Margaret (Eyerly) Stanfel, Bill was raised in Canton and graduated from Canton Senior High School in May of 1957. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served honorably from 1957 until his discharge in 1961. During his service, he attended the Naval Mine Warfare School, later continuing his commitment to the Navy as he retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve as Master Chief Mineman on August 1, 1994.

Bill began his career in Chicago, IL, working in production for Mars Inc. from 1961 to 1966. It was during this time that he married Judy Ann Mefford in Pekin, IL. The couple made their home in Forest Park, IL, until they relocated to Fargo in 1968, where Judy worked as a surgical nurse while Bill pursued a successful sales career. His professional journey included roles at E.J. Brach & Sons, Harvey-Winchell Company, Westinghouse Electric Corp., and North American Philips Lighting Corp. After Bill’s career in sales, he worked for Integrity Windows for many years until his retirement.

Throughout the years, Bill and Judy cherished their summers at their cabin on Cotton Lake near Rochert, MN. Following Judy’s unexpected passing, Bill dedicated himself to the local Boy Scout Troop 214 in Fargo. As a scout himself, he found great fulfillment in mentoring young scouts, teaching them the art of knot tying, and encouraging them to achieve their full potential. Bill had a passion for Scoutcraft, and attended National Jamborees in 2005 and 2010, staffing the Pioneering area.

Bill will be remembered and missed by his Godson, Travers Behlmer of Detroit Lakes, MN; and brother, David Stanfel of Livermore, CA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Judy; and two brothers, Michael Stanfel and Richard Stanfel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 2pm in Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Fargo, ND. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to Mass. Bill will be laid to rest beside his wife, Judy, in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, IL on Friday, September 19, 2025.