William "Bill" P. Stiegler

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 28 years, retiring as a Commander in 1984. His years of military service took him to many places, and he carried those experiences with quiet dignity and enduring pride. Among the memories he spoke of most fondly was watching the World Trade Center being built from his office window while stationed in New York City.

Away from duty, Bill found deep satisfaction in working with his hands. He enjoyed woodworking and created many functional and decorative pieces. Bill also loved seeing the country. He and his wife, Sylvia, traveled widely across the United States, taking many Land Cruise bus excursions to destinations near and far. He also took a special trip to Germany, where they experienced the Oberammergau Passion Play, the centuries-old tradition performed by the townspeople of Oberammergau, Bavaria—an event whose meaning and beauty stayed with him.

Bill’s heart was especially open to dogs, who held a cherished place in his life. Over the years, his dogs were constant companions, and none more so than his beloved Siberian Husky, Hans.

A long-time member of Trinity English Lutheran Church, Bill expressed his devotion through faithful presence and service, including several years as chairman of the Usher Committee. It was through this role that an unexpected chapter of his life began. In extending an invitation to the first female usher in the history of Trinity English, Bill could not have known the lasting impact it would have. She accepted—and in time, Sylvia became not only a valued part of the church, but the love of his life. Together, they shared 28 deeply blessed years of marriage.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia A. Stiegler; his sons, Dr. Andrew (Dr. Elizabeth) Stiegler and Brian S. Stiegler; his grandchildren, Dr. Alexandra (Dr. Chase) Watiker, Justin (Kate) Stiegler, Nickole (Grant) Marrah, Samuel C. Stiegler, Spencer (Sehui) Stiegler, and Sabrina (Kailani) Patacsil; and his great-grandchildren, Avery, Chloe, Auvis, Joseph, Melanie, Oliver, Waverly, Eliana, Elijah, Kingston, and Willow. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by two wives, Rebecca and Marget.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Trinity English Lutheran Church, 450 W. Washington Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Pine Valley, 1320 E. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne, IN. Bill will be laid to rest at Lindenwood Cemetery, 2324 West Main Street, Fort Wayne, IN.

Memorial contributions in Bill's name may be directed toward Trinity English Lutheran Church, 450 W. Washington Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN, 46802, or Humane Fort Wayne,  901 St Francis Dr, Fort Wayne, IN, 46808.