William Studer, 76, of Albert Lea died Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019, as the result of a fatal vehicle accident. William’s sister, Elaine Penny Lieb, was also critically injured in the accident. She was airlifted to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, but died Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019.

A joint celebration of life is scheduled for 3 p.m. Saturday at Zion Lutheran Church, 924 Bridge Ave. in Albert Lea. The Rev. Matt Lehman will officiate. Friends may greet the family one hour prior to the service at the church. Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com.

William was born July 11, 1942, in Albert Lea to Wilbur A. and Emma Lucille (Hanson) Studer. He was the only boy in the family and had three sisters. He graduated from Central High School in Albert Lea. He was a filmographer and had a library of memorabilia. William’s friends described him as a unique, intelligent, kind, compassionate and loving soul. He was well known for his quick wit and humor, and for being very well-read. He was always there for friends in times of need. When asked how he would like to be remembered, William simply stated “as a gentleman.”

He was preceded in death by his parents; niece, Michelle Elaine (Lieb) Levorson; brother-in-law, Dennis Lieb; and his beloved grandparents. William cherished being able to provide care for both his aging grandmother, Minnie Beatrice (Every) Hanson, who lived to be 94; and his mother, Emma Lucille (Hanson) Studer, who lived to the age of 97.

Survivors include two sisters, Irene (Studer) Dassier (Jean-Francois) and Mary (Studer) Bye (Lowell); three nieces and nephew, Lisa (Bye) Scherber (Terry), Peter Bye (Kristine), Frannie Dassier (Ross) and Nadine Dassier (Mark); and other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Lakewood Cemetery Association, American Heart Association, Concordia Lutheran Church or Zion Lutheran Church.