William ‘Bill’ D. Betz

OCALA, Fla. — William “Bill” D. Betz, 86, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Brookdale Canopy Oaks Senior Living facility in Ocala, Fla., with his family by his side.

Bill was born on Jan. 13, 1940, in Hanoverton, Ohio, to the late Perry W. and Lillian (Peterson) Betz.

He enlisted in the United States Army in March of 1962 and was honorably discharged in March of 1964. He will always be remembered for his patriotism and pride in his country.

Shortly after returning home from the Army, Bill started working as a welder for some time. He then moved on to work for Bayless Gas as a Propane Delivery Driver, where he eventually retired after 25 years. Bill was a hardworking man and always remained very proud of it. He was even on the cover of LP Gas Magazine during his time as a Propane Delivery Driver.

Bill married Denise Hanna on May 28, 1967. They were married for 49 loving years until her passing in 2016.

He was a member of Highland Christian Church for over 50 years where he made many lifelong friendships and lasting connections. During his retirement, he took a liking to woodworking and spending more time with his loved ones.

Bill loved the local community he had built his life in but eventually decided to move to Florida and live with his nephew Doug and his family after the pandemic. Bill remained with Doug and his family for almost five and a half years until his passing.

Bill is survived by his nephews, Doug (Jackie) Betz, Mark Morris, and Travis (Lisa) Barr, a niece, Fay McMamera, a sister, Josephine Morris, and a sister-in-law, Rosemary Betz. He is also survived by his great-nieces, Kaytlyn Grissom, Zoey Betz, Mckayla Morris, Mariah Kirk, and Alayna Morris, and Jamie Bradley, as well as several great-great-nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Denise, two brothers, Ronnie Betz and Leo Betz, and a brother-in-law, Junior Morris.

A funeral service for Bill will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Highland Christian Church, located at 5330 Yates Road, Salem, OH 44460.

He will be laid to rest at Highland Christian Church Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Bill’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

6/6/26