William A. “Bill” Witmer, 94, of Williamsport, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at UPMC Williamsport. He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 69 years, Phyllis B. (Brownlee) Witmer on July 20, 2023.
Born January 11, 1930, in Williamsport, he was a son of the late Arthur and Mayme G. (Weicht) Witmer.
A 1948 graduate of Williamsport High School, Bill’s early career began at Witty’s Garage, a place where his natural mechanical aptitude shone. His commitment to service led him to the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, where he served his country with honor. Upon his return, he embarked on a long and fulfilling career at Textron Lycoming, where he began working as supervisor of statistical analysis and later retired in 1989 in sales.
Bill’s love for sports was undeniable. From 1950 to 1955, he played professional baseball for the Chicago White Sox. His achievements on the field were immortalized in 2000 when he was inducted into the West Branch Baseball Hall of Fame, a proud moment for Bill and all who knew him.
Beyond the baseball diamond, Bill was a member of the Tabernacle Baptist Church and an active member of the American Legion Post 1 and Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County.
His interests were as varied as they were engaging. He was a renowned handyman, whose skills were often sought after by friends and neighbors. Bill’s love for puzzles reflected his methodical and patient nature, while his reputation as a practical jokester showcased his playful spirit. An avid storyteller and a skilled carpenter which was not just a hobby but a craft he perfected over the years. Travel was another passion of Bill’s, and he took every opportunity to explore new places with his late wife, Phyllis.
Surviving are a son, William W. Witmer (Patty) of Tampa, FL; three daughters, Crystal L. Eiswerth (Steve) of Williamsport, Karen J. Terry (Marc) of Lewisburg, and Kimberly J. Mayo (Michael) of Seagrove, NC; a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren: Andrea, Paul, Meghan, Aaron, Faith, Jennifer, Joshua, Chad, Andrew, Anthony, Amanda, Abrahm, Amelia, Alyson, Matthew, and Isaiah; and 24 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by a brother, Gary Witmer; a sister Pauline Shimp, both of Williamsport; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Scott A. Witmer, and two brothers, Robert and Pete Witmer.
A funeral service to honor the life of Bill will be held 11 a.m. Friday, January 19, at Tabernacle Baptist Church 911 W 3rd St, Williamsport, with his son-in-law, Michael Mayo, officiating. Burial will follow in Twin Hills Memorial Park, Muncy with full military honors. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church.
Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s name to the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County Honor Guard P.O. Box 3232 Williamsport, PA 17701.
Arrangements entrusted to Knight-Confer Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made on Bill’s obituary page at http://www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.
