William Franklin Crouse

William “Bill” Crouse, age 76, of Tampa, Florida passed away on Thursday, February 11, 2021. He was born December 9, 1944 in Ridgley, Maryland to the late Harry and Elizabeth Crouse. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Richard (Dickie),Charles, Ronald and Gene and a sister, Ann Diaz.

He is survived by his sister, Amanda Clevinger and also his wife, the love of his life, Frances “Kiki” Crouse, whom he married in 1964. They had three children, Roger (Karen Ann), Karen (Bill Diaz) and Allison. He has 5 grandchildren, Joshua, Carly, Anthony, Andrea and Avery. He has 4 great grandchildren, Mia, Kal, Asunta and Aiden.

He was an Ironworker, by trade, for local 397 for 55 years.

He spent his entire life dedicated to building race cars and has won over 1000 races with his cars. There were a few drivers that raced Harry and Bill’s cars. Most of those wins were won by Bobby Alexander.

Bill was loved and respected by all. He was a mentor and a teacher to the racing community. Some may even call him a legend. He was a fierce competetor. He loved life. He was very serious but could also be the biggest jokester. He was very stern and hardheaded but was also very sweet at times. But no matter what, he was the most honest and trustworthy man you would ever meet.

He was very special to his family and closest friends. We love him and will miss him tremendously.

Thank you for all of your kind words and prayers.

We are asking, because of Covid, to please wear masks at all times while inside and save hugs and kisses for a later time. Thank you.

A visitation for Bill will be held Tuesday, February 16, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511.

A celebration of life will follow at The Venue on the Lake, 11502 Thonotosassa Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HillsboroMemorial.com for the Crouse family.