William C. "Bill" Phelps

William joined the Air Force at an early age to defend his country and was a member of the Eighth Air Force, 486th Bomb Group stationed in Sudbury, England. He flew 35 missions as a Ball Turret gunner over Germany during World War II before his discharge. He married Dolores (Wingfield) Phelps on July 2, 1945 (who preceded him in death). They enjoyed 53 years of marriage and had three children, Susie, Bill and Jim. He worked at Hoosier Cardinal before going to Bootz Mfg. Company from which he retired. He was very active in his community after moving to Darmstadt in 1953. Bill was the Fire Chief for many years of the Scott Township Fire Department and was a founding member of the Scott Township Civic Association and the first Town Marshall of Darmstadt. Bill was also a Special Deputy during the tenure of Sheriff Jerry Riney, a longtime member of the Evansville Parks Board, on the Board of Centurion Credit Union, a member of the Eagles, VFW on Wabash, The Cynthiana Masonic Lodge and the Honor Veteran Group of the Hadi Shrine. He married Joan Caniff Woods Phelps on January 26, 2001. They enjoyed traveling to many countries, dancing several nights a week, their Wednesday friends group and had a very happy and active life together until his recent illness. Bill loved his new family and always thought of them as his children.

Bill was an active member of Salem church of Darmstadt where he served on the council and many boards.

He is survived by his wife Jo, children, Susie (Don) Kirkland, Bill (Sandy) Phelps, Jim (Jeri) Phelps, Tom (Connie) Woods, Bill (Janet) Woods, Rick Woods, Mike (Annette) Woods, Beth (Dave) Perney, Steve (Margrite) Woods, Jenny (Joe) Ellis, Cindy (Dave) Meeks; and beloved dog, Buster; many grandchildren, great grandchildren; and one great great grandson.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, May 10, 2016, at Salem Church of Darmstadt, 14134 Darmstadt Road, Evansville, IN 47725, officiated by Rev. David Peterson. Friends may visit Monday from 3:00 to 8:00 PM at Alexander North Chapel and Tuesday from 10:00 AM until service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salem Church of Darmstadt or Scott Township Fire Department, 1540 E. Baseline Road, Evansville, IN 47725. Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderNorthChapel.com.