William H. Hetzel, conducting a general contracting electrical business, has been a lifelong resident of Racine, his birth having occurred in this city June 19, 1873, his parents being David and Mary L. (Wilken) Hetzel, who were pioneer residents here, the family having long been represented in Racine, where they have ever stood for substantial development and improvement. Passing through consecutive grades in the public schools, William H. Hetzel devoted one year of study in the high school and then started out in the business world, taking up carpentering, which he followed for a year. He next turned his attention to electrical work and thoroughly mastered various phases of the business, while in the employ of others. He early recognized the fact that industry wins and industry became the beacon light of his life. Earnest, persistent labor has brought him advancement and after working his way upward in the employ of others he embarked in business on his own account in 1897 at No. 321 Sixth street, where he remained until July, 1915, when in’ sought more commodious and convenient quarters at No. 511 Sixth street. Here he is now located, carrying on a general contracting electrical business, and the efficiency which he has attained in this line insures to him a liberal and growing patronage.
On the 6th of January, 1915, Mr. Hetzel was married to Miss Amanda Race, of Racine, and they have many friends here, occupying an enviable position in the social circles in which they live. Mr. Hetzel holds membership with the Knights of Pythias and also with the Spanish American War Veterans, for at the time of the war with Spain he enlisted for service in defense of American interests, becoming a member of Company First Wisconsin Infantry. In politics he maintains an independent attitude, voting for men and measures rather than for party. He has always lived in Racine and that his is a well spent life is indicated in the fact that many of his staunchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood to the present time.