William Waltz

July 22, 1938 – July 31, 2026

William Waltz, 88, of Gotha, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

William was born on July 22, 1938, in Olongapo, Philippines. He proudly served his country for 28 years as a member of the United States Navy, a career that took him around the world and instilled in him a lifelong sense of discipline, honor, and dedication to service. A true patriot, William carried his love of country with him throughout his life. He was also a dedicated animal lover, whose compassion for animals was a well-known part of who he was.

William shared 62 years of marriage with his beloved wife, "Winkie". Theirs was a lifelong devotion, and William stood faithfully by her side through sickness and in health, honoring the vow they made to one another until her passing. In a poignant final chapter to their enduring love story, Winkie passed away just three days before William, and he followed her home, as if unable to be apart from her for long.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Angela (Pellico) Waltz; his father, John Waltz; his mother, Julia Jurado; and his siblings, James Waltz, Delores Smith, John Waltz, George Waltz, and Roger Hidalgo.

William is survived by his three children: Jennifer McLeod of Rock Hill, SC; William John Waltz (Alana) of Ramona, CA; and Julie Madziarczyk (Scott) of Temecula, CA. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Kevin Roper, Jr. (Lyanne), Cortney Mamaty, John Madziarczyk, Kayden Roper, Truette Roper, and Brooke Corbo. He was also survived by his siblings Helen Jenkins, Margaret Bronks, and Richard Waltz.

William will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a proud patriot, and an animal lover with a soft heart for every creature he encountered. His steady presence, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family leave a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the lives of those he loved and who loved him in return.