Remembering Manju Bill Frackelton

William Hamilton Frackelton II passed away peacefully with family and friend at his side at age 78 on Sunday, March 6, 2022, from ALS. We send our condolences to his family and the Zen River Sangha Center, the community he founded and loved so dearly. He will be missed.

Bill was born in Milwaukee and proudly served in the military. He devoted his life in service to others as a social worker, prison chaplain, Zen Buddhist priest (Manju Usra), and through his work in the Wisconsin Truth Project and the Mankind Project. Manju Bill was one of the co-founders of the Appleton Zen Center, which is now known as Zen River Sangha. Having been introduced to Zen earlier, Bill practiced with Junpo in Zen-Yoga retreats and was among the initial participants in Hollow Bones at the formation. Ever determined in dharma practice, Manju lit the way for many, and he remained connected with Sangha throughout his illness as an inspiration to us all.

Beloved husband of Jill Buckmaster; loving father of William and Caitlin Frackelton; dear brother of Susan Wright (David); loving grandfather of Jacob, Liam, and Ezra.

He is further survived by other relatives, many friends, and an extensive dharma family.

Preceding him in death were his father William Frackelton, mother Jane Frackelton (nee Love), and cousin Anne Decker (John).

Memorial services will be announced in the near future.

Gratitude to the Milwaukee VA, Compassionate Care Hospice, and the ALS Milwaukee Chapter for their kindness, support, and care.