William Frederick Hering

William “Bill” Frederick Hering IV passed away on November 1, 2025 following a recent diagnosis of brain cancer. Born on January 30, 1949, and raised in Bayport, Minnesota, Bill dedicated his life to public service and family.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Carol Sue Rasmussen Hering; parents, Helen and William Hering; and sister, Jean Benoy. He is survived by his children, Todd (Nicole), Andrew (Kristina), and Robin (Matt) Stien; grandchildren Alli, Emily, Grant, Allie, Jake, Natalie, and Samantha; great-grandson Clayton; his sister Carrie (John) Carlberg; brother Larry (Anita) Hering; and many extended family and friends. 

Bill began his career in 1970 as a police officer in Bayport, carrying on his grandfather’s and father’s legacy of public service. He also served as a firefighter in Coon Rapids and a police officer in Oakdale before spending 32 years serving Woodbury and retiring as Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety. Bill took great pride in the service-oriented culture that he and his fellow law enforcement officers built in their community. Late in his career, he proudly earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational management from Concordia University, St. Paul.

Bill was very active in the lives of his family. He attended countless games, concerts, and school events as a supportive dad and grandpa. He played softball for many years, was a fire station history buff, and enjoyed photography. He and his wife Carol cherished annual summer vacations with family and doting on their pets. 

Patient, kind and with a great sense of humor, Bill was the kind of person that others looked to for encouragement, guidance, and friendship.

Visitation for Bill will be held on Thursday, November 13th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Bradshaw Funeral Home (2800 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater). His funeral service will be held at Memorial Lutheran Church (15730 Afton Blvd., Afton) on Friday, November 14th, at 11:00 AM, with a visitation starting at 10:00 AM. A luncheon will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Woodbury Community Support Fund – Public Service, which helps first responders provide immediate assistance to community members in crisis. Contributions to another service-oriented charity of your choice are also appreciated.