William Clarence “Bill” Brauneis, 96, of Oak Park, died peacefully at home on Oct. 17, 2026, surrounded by family. Born in Chicago on July 7, 1930, he grew up during the Great Depression and endured several hardships, including the early loss of two brothers to hemophilia. He trained as a pattern maker and served in the Army in Germany. In 1959, he married Geraldine “Gerri” Riddell, and they raised their family in Maywood and Oak Park.
Fascinated by new technology, Bill moved from traditional pattern making into plastics manufacturing. He co-founded Basic Plastic Products, a successful business for more than 30 years that produced specialized plastic components, including the housing for Motorola’s first handheld cellphone.
Bill and Gerri raised four children — Bob, Jim, Steve and Laura — while mourning two sons, John and Paul, who died in infancy. Bill enthusiastically supported Gerri’s decision to attend law school and pursue a career in family law. They also traveled the world together.
Endlessly curious, Bill embraced personal computers and electric cars early. He enjoyed sailing, tennis, racquetball and golf, which he played into his 90s. His compassion found expression through volunteering with the Animal Care League and Housing Forward.
He cared for Gerri through her illness until her death in 2016, and continued to give care to friends as they faced health challenges. After suffering a debilitating stroke in 2023, he persevered over three difficult years with characteristic determination, supported by his family and dedicated caregivers.
Bill is survived by his children, Robert (Ulrike), James (Laurie), Steven (Masako), and Laura (William Rentz); his grandchildren, Kate (Cameron Gillespie), Elizabeth, William, Kai, Sophia and Sho; and his great-granddaughter, Samantha. He was predeceased by Gerri; his parents, Frank and Pauline; his brothers, Frank and Robert; and his sons, John and Paul.
A wake will be held on Friday, Oct. 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Salerno’s Galewood Chapel, 1857 N. Harlem Ave., Chicago. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10 a.m. at St. Giles Catholic Church, 1045 Columbian Ave., Oak Park (which will be livestreamed). Immediately following Mass, he will be laid to rest at Memorial Park in Skokie. Friends and family are invited to attend.
Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to Housing Forward or Animal Care League.