Bill Woldenberg

Born in Madison, Wisconsin on October 13, 1924

Departed on May 7, 2018

William "Bill" James Woldenberg, 93, of Franklin, TN, passed away the morning of May 7th, 2018.

He was born in Madison, Wisconsin, to Charles Woldenberg and Esther Woldenberg, nee Glassner, on October 13th, 1924. Upon graduating high school, Bill enlisted as a Naval Aviator and later was accepted to and graduated from The United States Military Academy at West Point. He was a veteran of World War II. Bill is survived by his wife of 52 years Lona Jane Woldenberg, nee Bryan, a native of Florence, Alabama where they made their home together.

As the owner of Hickory Hills Industries, he employed more than 500 in both Clifton and Savanah, Tennessee, and New York as a clothing manufacturer. He was a life-long athlete: completing over 50 marathons; enjoying both snow skiing and ice sailing; avidly playing tennis; with some frustration-golfing; and with great devotion until the end, walking his dog Max three times a day. Bill will be remembered fondly for his love of family, generosity, quick wit, direct manner, the ability to find common ground with anyone he encountered, his love of big band music as well as opera, eating as much chocolate as humanly possible, and watching Alabama football.

Bill is survived by his children Lynn Schneider (David), Charles Woldenberg (Shelia), Kim Clemmons (Harold), Jane Thomas (Dudley), Caroline Woldenberg and is preceded by Patrick Libert (Jeanette). He was the proud grandfather of 7 and great-grandfather of 2. He is also preceded by his cherished siblings Newt Woldenberg, Caroline Halpern, and Ann Bliss.

As was his request, there will be no service. The family will plan a celebration of life next year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests making a donation to your charity of choice, Or buy someone you care for a nice dinner and a box of chocolates...He would love that.