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William “Bill” Victor Dierker, age 76, passed away on January 13, 2026, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital.
Bill was born on March 27, 1949, in Peoria, Illinois, to Lee John Dierker and Louise Jeanette (Larson) Dierker. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.
Bill attended Bradley University, where he studied advanced mathematics, reflecting the analytical mind and precision that would define his life’s work.
From an early age, Bill developed a deep passion for British automobiles, a passion that became both his profession and his legacy. He founded and operated British Automotive Specialists, where for more than 50 years he restored, repaired, and fabricated British cars, specializing in the MG marque. Bill was widely regarded as an expert in British automotive mechanics, and known for his craftsmanship, attention to detail, disregard for aesthetics, and uncompromising standards.
Within the SCCA F and H Production racing community, Bill earned national recognition as a fabricator, builder, and a driver. He was considered one of the foremost authorities on constructing Sprite race cars, and his work contributed to numerous national championship–winning cars. His reputation extended nationwide, and his knowledge was sought by racers and enthusiasts across the country.
Bill possessed an extraordinary depth and powerhouse of knowledge and was often described as a walking encyclopedia—unmatched by manuals, the internet, or modern technology. His expertise was priceless and irreplaceable. He also held strong opinions, particularly about banks, Caterpillar engineers, and Corvettes, and he never hesitated to voice them.
Beyond automobiles, Bill had a lesser-known but equally refined passion for antique radios. He spent many years collecting, repairing, restoring, and trading radios, applying the same meticulous skill and curiosity that defined his automotive work.
He is also fondly remembered for his dogs, especially N.E.D., once featured in Car and Driver Magazine as an award-winning junkyard dog, along with other memorable companions Dewey (“Do he bite?”), Bailey, and Ugly.
Bill is survived by his two honorary sons, Nick Baker and Colt Sandberg, and by his cats, N.E.C., Bob, and Scarface, who were his constant companions.
Bill’s phone was always ringing—people seeking his advice, expertise, or insight. Though he rarely returned calls, his influence was far-reaching and enduring.
A Celebration of Life will be held on January 24, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Monical’s Pizza, 4408 N. Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, Illinois 61614. Friends, family, and members of the automotive community are welcome to attend.
Additional arrangements for a spring burial and a car cruise in Bill’s honor are being planned, with details to be announced at a later date.
His friends are seeking assistance to cover remaining funeral expenses, including interment fees and the purchase of a headstone, so that Bill may be laid to rest with a permanent marker honoring his life and legacy.
Those wishing to assist with memorial or burial expenses may contribute via GoFundMe at:
Bill leaves behind a legacy of precision, independence, mastery, and knowledge that cannot be replaced.
Thank you for helping us honor Bill’s memory and legacy.
Organizer
