William Jeryl Pitzer

William Jeryl Pitzer, lovingly known as Bill, was born on July 11, 1934, in Clarence, Missouri, the only child of Orville and Gertrude (Lockard) Pitzer. He passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at Hospice of the Valley, surrounded by his family.

Bill spent his early years in Missouri before his family relocated to Eagle, Nebraska, in 1946. He graduated from high school in 1952, and it was there that he met the love of his life, Shirley Ostrander. The two were married on June 6, 1954, and together they built a beautiful life, raising seven children.

After completing two years at the University of Nebraska, Bill embarked on a career as an agronomist. His work took him from Stuckley Hybrid in DeWitt, Iowa, to Garst & Thomas Seed Company in Coon Rapids, Iowa, where all seven of his children graduated high school. He later joined Pioneer Hi-Bred International in Johnston, Iowa, retiring in 1996. Upon retirement, Bill and Shirley moved to Peoria, Arizona, to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bill was known for his remarkable woodworking skills, creating everything from intricate bird carvings to handcrafted dollhouses and beautifully turned bowls. In his retirement, he developed a passion for golf and continued to enjoy reading, gardening, and fishing—cherishing trips to Canada with his sons and friends.

Bill was a proud Nebraska Cornhusker and St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was deeply involved in his community, serving as a member and past headmaster of the Masonic Lodge, spending six years on the Coon Rapids School Board, and actively participating in several committees at Willowbrook United Methodist Church in Peoria, Arizona. However, his greatest joy was cheering on his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at their school and sporting events.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughter, Peggy. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Shirley; his children, Vicki (Ron) Schroeder, Greg Pitzer, Kevin (Mary) Pitzer, Bruce Pitzer, Brad (Toy) Pitzer, and Linda Young; 12 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, at 11:00 AM at Willowbrook United Methodist Church in Sun City, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be mailed in Bill’s memory to the church, Willowbrook United Methodist Church, 19390 N 99th Ave, Sun City, Arizona 85373.