William Kallman was born January 10, 1891. He had four brothers: Oscar, John, Frank and Albert, and a sister Mrs Ellen Carter. He was educated in public schools, and worked odd jobs for Green Bay & Western Railroad Co. with his father. He was also employed as a switchman at Nekoosa-Port Edwards Co. at Port Edwards.

William enlisted in the Navy on May 14, 1918 at the Great Lakes Training Station, where he remained for three weeks. After that he was sent to New York where he was given the position of fireman on a convoy, and made a round trip overseas. On his way back he contacted Influenza.

On Friday November 18, 1918 at Willard Parker Hospital, New York City, William died. His remains arrived home on Monday morning May 11th. The Military funeral service took place at Forest Hill Cemetery. William's father had passed away on September 23rd, 1918, making this even harder for the family.

Seth Janssen, Student
East Junior High, Wisconsin Rapids

Born in January 1890, William Kallman was 27 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was deployed to France during his term of duty. It was on the way back to the States when he fell ill. When his ship got back on November 1st, he was put in Willard Parker Hospital in New York City, New York, where he passed away of influenza on November 8 1918. His brother, John, accompanied his remains home to Grand Rapids. They arrived back on November 8th.

During his education he worked at odd times for Green Bay & Western Railroad Company with his father, Claus Kallman. Before his enlistment he was employed as a switchman for the Nekoosa-Port Edwards Co. in Port Edwards. His funeral service was a military type. Rev. Meilicke officiated the funeral. William was laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery.

William Kallman was and still remembered by his colleagues and friends as "a jovial disposition, kind and considerate of his family." "A nice boy has given his life so that others may enjoy the peace and benefits of his sacrifice. May God rest his soul."



Kyle Ahles
East Junior High School

14 Nov 1918, Thu Wood County Reporter (Grand Rapids, Wisconsin) Newspapers.com