Born on May 15, 1938, in Greensburg, William was a proud native son who lived a life marked by service, dedication, and quiet strength. He graduated from Sand Creek High School in 1957 and soon after answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. Over the course of 23 years, William rose to the rank of Master Sergeant and served with honor, including two deployments during the Vietnam War.
After retiring from the Air Force, William spent several years in Las Vegas, where he enjoyed the warmth of the desert sun and the energy of the city. He reunited with Loma Jane Knarr, and the two were married on March 13, 2009, in Las Vegas. They returned to William and Jane’s hometown of Greensburg to enjoy their years together in the quiet comfort of familiar surroundings.
William was known for his steady presence, sense of duty, and deep loyalty to both his family and his fellow servicemen. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; birth mother, Mary Davis; brother, Kenneth Hitchcock; sisters, Lois Hitchcock and Lena Walker; son, Jason Lee Hitchcock; step-son, Robert Brown; and son-in-law John Ward.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Hitchcock; daughter, Dawn Ward of Greensburg; niece, Mary Ruble; nephews, Phil Hitchcock, Kenneth Hitchcock, Jr and Bill Hitchcock; eight grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and a host of family, friends, and former colleagues who were privileged to know him.
A celebration of life is planned at a later date. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com.
