William "Gus" Ankney

William H. Ankney II, affectionately known to everyone as “Gus,” passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, in Wheeler, Wisconsin, at the age of 72. He was surrounded by his loving family following a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Gus was born on June 19, 1954, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the proud oldest child of William H. Ankney I and Beverly (Quarders) Ankney. In 1966, the Ankney family moved from Kenosha to Wheeler, where Gus grew up alongside his three sisters, Kim, Kelly, and Shannon. He attended school in Wheeler and Boyceville, forming friendships that would span the decades.

In his early working years, Gus was employed at American Materials in Chetek. In 1982, he began what would become a dedicated 31-year career with the Dunn County Highway Department. Starting on the road crew, his skill and work ethic led him to become a heavy equipment operator, a role he held until his retirement in 2013. Long after his retirement, Gus maintained very strong, opinions on the correct way to plow snow—a topic he was always happy to discuss with anyone.

On October 2, 1982, Gus married Carol Nusberger in Wheeler. From this union, they were blessed with two daughters. Though their infant daughter, Erin Lynn, was born and passed away on April 1, 1983, she was always kept close in their hearts. Their daughter, Cara Marie, was born in October of 1984. From the very moment she entered the world, “Gert” was a Daddy’s girl, sharing an unbreakable bond with her father that remained strong until his final breath. While Gus and Carol’s marriage was not meant to last, their mutual love, respect, and deep friendship endured throughout his life.

Gus found love again and was united in marriage to Teresa (Turner) Ankney on September 21, 2012, in Wheeler. Gus deeply loved his “puddin’,” and together they built a beautiful life filled with shared adventures. They loved searching for treasures at antique stores, watching NASCAR, Harley Davidsons, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. Surrounded by a wide circle of family and friends, Gus and Teresa loved spending hours talking, cracking jokes, and chasing their energetic puppy, Della.

Laughter and warmth followed Gus wherever he went. He was naturally funny, possessing an infectious sense of humor and a gift for storytelling. Whether he was delivering a quick-witted joke or recounting a colorful story from his youth, he had a unique ability to bring joy and laughter to any room.

Beyond his humor, Gus was a remarkably talented artist. In his younger years, he painted and pinstriped race cars, and throughout his life, his creative touch could be seen on signs he painted for local businesses. He also delighted in drawing caricatures, most notably his beloved signature character, “Ruben.”

Above all, Gus was a proud and loving "Papa." He adored his grandchildren—Kylie, Loralie, Robert, and Sawyer—and was incredibly supportive of their goals, dreams, and activities. He was their biggest cheerleader and loved updating his friends on their latest accomplishments and news.

Gus had a rare gift for connection; his friendships lasted decades, and the line between friends and family was easily and beautifully blurred. He was known for his legendary hugs—if you were lucky enough to receive one, you felt the deep, genuine love he had for you.

Gus is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; his daughter, Cara (Ryan) Ankney-Swenby; his sisters, Kim Hill and Shannon (Matthew) Blaeser; and his cherished grandchildren, Kylie, Loralie, Robert, and Sawyer. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and family members who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William I and Beverly Ankney; his infant daughter, Erin Lynn Ankney; his sister, Kelly Bowman; and his special canine companion, Bear Dog.

Gus’s laughter, talent, and legendary hugs will be remembered and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday September 26th, at the 50 Yard Line Tavern, located at 408 W Main St, Wheeler, WI 54772, beginning at 1:00 PM.

Rhiel Funeral Home and Cremation Services will be serving the family.

To share a memory, please visit Obituaries at www.rhielfuneralhome.com