by Jan Antholz
William (Bill) Antholz was a lifelong music educator and professional singer in Minnesota, continuing in retirement as an active member of his church choir and as director of Venice Musicale's Encore Chorus for ten years from 2008–2018. The only thing Bill loved more than music was his family: his wife of fifty-nine years, Jan Antholz, and their two daughters, Wendy and Teri. Jan is also a lifelong musician and, after retiring from her own career in music education, she became Encore's accompanist and Bill's partner in leading the Chorus. His easy banter with Jan, punctuated by well-told stories and impromptu jokes during performances, gained the affection of audiences throughout the Venice area. Bill often spoke about their daughters, recalling how much he loved the fact that the kids didn't seem to mind sharing school with him, often holding hands with him on their way down the hall.
Wendy Antholz died in 2013 after an extended battle with cancer. She earned her college degree in art history, wielding her considerable talents with a camera in the US and Europe for many years. She also worked at the Ameriprise Corporation in Minneapolis. Wendy loved music as well and, with her sister, Teri, sang in many choirs directed by their parents.
