A fourth generation member of Wisconsin's best known brewing dynasty has died. John William "Bill" Leinenkugel lost a battle with cancer through a brain tumor Monday. Leinenkugel , who was 87, was instrumental in the company's growth during a time when other breweries were closing. He served as president of the company from 1971 to 1986, and in 1979 came up with the idea of Leinie's Lodge, a popular attraction at Leinenkugel's Chippewa Falls brewery. Leinenkugal's son Richard was recently appointed as Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce, by Governor Jim Doyle. He is survived by his 5 children and 11 grandchildren. Visitation for Leinenkugel is Thursday at the Leinie Lodge in Chippewa Falls.
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