Letter to the Editor: Remembering Bill Harder

The Door County Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Preservation Society is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Bill Harder, president of the museum’s board of directors.

Bill served as president of the museum for the past eight years, and during that time, he was a driving force in making the museum’s three venues – in Sturgeon Bay, on Cana Island and in Gills Rock – integral institutions that contributed to Door County’s uniquely special quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Bill’s passion, vision, dedication and persistence helped to make the 10-story Maritime Lighthouse Tower – currently under construction on Sturgeon Bay’s waterfront – a reality. He believed strongly in the Lighthouse Tower campaign promise that the new tower will “Create a Landmark and Leave a Legacy,” not only for Door County, but for all of northeastern Wisconsin.

Bill was a true mariner: He graduated from Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy with an engineering degree, served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserve and worked in senior positions with the Army Corps of Engineers, Burger Boats and Bay Shipbuilding.

Everyone associated with the museum extends sincere condolences to his wife and family. Bill truly will be missed. 

Terry Connelly, President

Kevin Osgood, Executive Director

Door County Maritime Museum Board of Directors and Staff