William “Bill” Henry Conn

William “Bill” Henry Conn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on September 22, 1937, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Henry and Doris Conn.   Bill spent his formative years in the heartland, where he cultivated a strong sense of community and family values.

A distinguished veteran, Bill served his country in the United States Air Force from June 29, 1955, until March 2, 1959, achieving the rank of Airman Second Class. After his military service, he dedicated 37 years as an air traffic controller at the Indianapolis International Airport, where his expertise and commitment made a lasting impact on the lives of many travelers.

Bill was a man of diverse interests; he had a passion for model railroads, airplanes, military history, and stand-up comedy. He found joy in playing computer games, watching television, and tackling crossword puzzles and word searches. Above all, he cherished time spent with family and took great pleasure in traveling, creating countless memories with loved ones.
A faithful member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church, Bill’s strong faith was a guiding force throughout his life.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Marlene Conn, and their cherished children: Michele O’Connor (Bill), Michael Conn (Rose), Alan Conn (Sherry), Andrew Conn, and James Conn (Sarah). He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter as a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and a doting great-grandfather to 11 great-grandchildren. Bill’s natural gift for storytelling and humor enriched the lives of all who knew him.

He is also survived by his siblings Judy (Carl) Erickson, Sarah (Harold) Peters, and Robert (Joy)  Conn, as well as his brother-in-law Bill Heibner. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved daughter-in-law Denise, his sister Joanne Heibner, and a granddaughter, Christina.

Friends and family are invited to gather for a celebration of Bill’s life and legacy at a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

Services entrusted to O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227.

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

In this time of remembrance, let us come together to honor Bill’s remarkable life and the indelible mark he has left on each of us. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.