William (Bill) P. Ruys died May 22, 2022, with his loving family by his side. He was born on June 5, 1945, the oldest of 11 children born to Albert and Irene (Emmers) Ruys in Appleton, Wisconsin. Bill learned at an early age that "we're not on this earth to take up space," and he lived his life with purpose. He spent many of his early years helping to care for his younger siblings, working summers on his grandparents' farm, and tending to his family's large tomato garden. Bill attended Holy Name Grade School, Kimberly; Sacred Heart Seminary, Oneida; and, in 1962, graduated from Xavier High School, Appleton. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Latin from Saint Norbert College in 1966. A highlight of Bill's life was spending his junior year at Loyola University in Rome, Italy. During this time, Bill traveled throughout Europe and the Middle East, a transformative experience that shaped his world-view for the rest of his life. Bill taught English and Latin at Franklin Junior High in Green Bay. In 1972, he received his Master of Library Science degree from UW-Milwaukee. He then served as the Library and Media Director for Sevastopol Schools in Door County. In 1978, Bill changed careers and worked as an agent with State Farm Insurance for 28 years, retiring in 2006. Bill met Janet Messmer at Saint Norbert College. They were married on August 17, 1968, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Bill and Janet were together for over 53 years. Bill's happiest moments were the births of his children: son, Eric, and daughter, Molly. He loved spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed golfing with Eric and woodworking with Molly. Bill is survived by his wife, Janet; son, Eric; daughter-in-law, Janel; daughter, Molly Ruys; granddaughter, Emma Ruys; and grandson, Austin Roberts. "Papa" truly loved being a grandfather. He is further survived by his siblings Irene Nelson, Mary (Lyle) Ellenbecker, Joanie (Mike) Hogan, Anne (Mike) Locy, Katy Ruys, Laura Ruys, John (Jennie) Ruys, Therese (Dick) Bosch, and Sarah Olson; his in-laws Sister Mary Ellen Messmer, Katherine Murray, Susan Messmer; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Irene Ruys; brother, Anthony Ruys; in-laws, Howard and Charlotte Messmer; and brother-in-law, Jim Murray. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated for Bill at 11 AM on Friday, May 27, 2022 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1305 Lourdes Ave., De Pere, WI 54115. Family and friends may visit at the church from 9 AM to the time of the Mass. Bill's family would like to thank his sisters who lovingly cared for him during his illness. They would also like to thank Unity Hospice. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill's name to The Ecumenical Partnership for Housing Green Bay or St. John's Homeless Shelter. Please leave a special message for Bill's family on the Tribute Wall.