Green Bay Reporter

Rep. Jim Steineke paid tribute to deceased legislator and veteran Bill Vander Loop on Twitter earlier this week. 

William Nickolas “Bill” Vander Loop died on Dec. 28 at the age of 89. He was a member of the Kaukauna Credit Union Board, the Kaukauna Utility Board, the Moose Club and the Lions Club International, and also served as commissioner, state vice commissioner, district commander and post commander during a 66-year stint with American Legion Post 258. He also served in the Korean War.

“I am saddened to hear the news of Bill Vander Loop’s passing," Steineke said in a post to his official Twitter account on Jan. 3. "Bill was a servant leader who dedicated his life to helping others. He strived to make his community a better place, serving his city, state and country throughout his life. Bill’s legacy lives on through all he accomplished and the impact he had on others. My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family during this difficult time.”

Vander Loop served on the Kaukauna City Council for eight years, and then was the Fifth District representative for eight years from 1991 to 1999. Steineke currently holds Vander Loop's Fifth District seat, creating a connection between the two men. Although Vander Loop was a Democrat and Steineke is a Republican, Steineke still honors his memory. 

Vander Loop was reported to have died peacefully in his home in his obituary. Vander Loop was married in 1957 and remained married for 42 years until his wife, Joyce's death in 1999, according to Vander Loop's obituary in the Post Crescent. He was also noted as a great sports fan, being particularly supportive of his children and grandchildren's efforts in athletics. 

A visitation for Vander Loop is being held on Jan. 4.