Bill Bentz

William Don Bentz, “Bill” was born July 24, 1944, in Kansas City, KS to William and Waunita Bentz. His father was in the Navy during WWII and died while serving in Hawaii prior to Bill’s birth. Waunita unfortunately passed away when Bill was 15 years old and Bill spent much of his time at his Aunt Virginia and Uncle Bud Runions’ house, who helped raise him.

Bill joined the Navy when he turned 17, following his graduation from Turner High School in 1962, as he knew this would be the best opportunity to make it to Hawaii to visit his dad’s gravesite.  On his first trip to Hawaii and during his first R&R, he took advantage of his free time and went to sit at the grave and talk to his dad for the first time.  He proudly served on the USS Hancock aircraft carrier where he was responsible for working in the boiler room and as a fireman, with primary duties of building air pressure to launch aircraft. After serving during the Vietnam War, Bill returned to his Kansas City roots and settled primarily in the Shawnee area for much of his adult life.

Bill enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, golfing, and bowling. His favorite time was often spent watching his grandkids play their various sports.  Life as a grandfather suited him well and was one of his greatest and proudest achievements.  When not watching his grandkids play, he loved his Kansas City Chiefs and was looking forward to watching them in the upcoming Super Bowl.  He also enjoyed spending time at the casino with close friends.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by sisters Joyce and Lydia, and close aunt and uncle Virginia and Bud Runions.

He is survived by daughter, Jennifer Henry and granddaughter Janessa, son Terry Bentz and grandchildren Carter, Caidyn, Maddy, Molly; and son Andy Bentz and wife Kim and grandchildren Jacob, Jaden, Collin, and Eli, and brother-in-law Jim Bales and children Cheryl, Ann, Debbie, and Mike, in addition to many other family and friends; including among his closest friends Ann Summers, Jerry Cole, Ron Stanley, and David Sappington.

A memorial service will be held Monday at Johnson County Funeral Chapel and Memorial Garden in Overland Park, KS.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a local VFW to continue to honor our countries heroes.