William Patzer

William J. “Bill” Patzer, of Chambersburg, PA, received his eternal reward as a good and faithful servant to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, when he passed away on Wednesday June 2, 2021 at the age of 84. Born in Milwaukee, WI, on July 26, 1936, to the late William Patzer of Poland and Hulda Stumpf of Milwaukee, Bill began to create his adventurous stories. As a young child, Bill moved to Coloma, MI, to live with his Uncle Harry and Aunt Emma “Patsy” Pagel. His sister, Ruth Patzer Magner and dear cousin/sister, Beverly Pagel Funk preceded Bill in death.

Surviving Bill in life are his one and only true love, Darlene L. Rupp Patzer of Benton Harbor, MI, daughter Cynthia Patzer Bovier of Batavia, NY (Robbie), son Jeffrey Patzer of Landisville, PA (Susan), and son Scott Patzer of Snellville, GA (Michelle).

The Lord blessed Bill with grandchildren who appreciated listening to Papa’s stories and challenging his inquisitive mind to build swing sets, railroads and hiding places; they include Jaclyn Patzer Murphy (Michael), David Patzer (Emily), Zachary and Kazia Patzer, and Jessica Bovier. Great-grandchildren include Lyra and Ryan Murphy.

Bill graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He achieved his Master’s degree at Syracuse University. Bill utilized his creative and analytical mind in his career at IBM from 1958 to 1996. From Gemini to Space Shuttle programs, Bill has always reached for the stars. For a well-deserved retirement, Bill and Dar moved to Florida. In 2009, they relocated to Chambersburg to be closer to family.

Bill was greatly loved not just in his home but in his community and church family as well. His great sense of purpose resulted in volunteering at church regardless of the capacity, continuing as advisor to Michigan Tech and Judd Lumber with his brother-in-law Richard Judd (Sandi Rupp Judd). This passion also reached across the nation and the world through mission trips to Africa, Peru and New Mexico to work with the Navajo Indians. His example of love, dedication and servitude provided the ultimate legacy that will last through eternity.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, June 7, 2021 at the New Life Center of Menno Haven, 2011 Scotland Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17201. Join us on William J Patzer’s Facebook page or in person. Arrangements are by Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Menno Haven Benevolent Fund, 2011 Scotland Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17201 or online at www.mennohaven.org/give/.