He was born November 29, 1943 as William Harold “Bill” Erbele, Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky. Son of William H. Erbele, Sr. & Elsie E. Felts & the 4th of seven children. Bill graduated from Atherton High School in 1961. He received his Associates Degree in Aviation Mechanics from Sacramento City College in 1978. Between entering the US Air Force in 1962 and retiring from the Air National Guard in 1995, Bill completed his Associates Degree in Aviation Mechanics, 9 service schools and 7 extension courses. He was a precise and effective aircraft mechanical and electronic engineer. He was also a leader who achieved a supervisory position in his department, retiring as Chief Master Sergeant, William H. Erbele.
Bill comes from a long line of proud, America – Loving, family military members. His dad fought in World War II and his brother in Vietnam as members of the US Navy, and his sister, Gloria, was in the US Air Force. Two of his uncles served in the US Army. Bill himself served 4 years in the US Air Force as an Aircraft Mechanic from June ’62 to June 66. He also served 2 years in the US Air Force Reserves from June ’66 to June ’68. He was a member of the Kentucky Air National Guard, the 123 Airlift Wing, for 19 years from April ’76 to December ’95. Bill patriotically and proudly served his country for a total of 25 years, 7 months and 29 days!
He loved the Lord and lived his life as he believed. At 10 years of age, Bill was baptized at Beechmont Baptist Church and attended church services for the greater part of his life. He was rebaptized as an adult and attended Fountain of Life Church and other churches as he moved.
Bill was a very hard worker, evidenced by his incredible work history and photos of him doing his chores. He worked hard to buy his own home, ensure his retirement was covered, and provide for his family. Although he would often come off as very serious, Bill was not all business and work. He enjoyed many hobbies such as motorcycle riding, square dancing, and various outdoor activities such as camping and fishing. He enjoyed the outdoors both with his family as he grew up, and throughout his marriage. In fact, he met his wife Judy square dancing while working at the Air National Guard Base. He appreciated the beauty and freedom he experienced from being outdoors and took time to observe beautiful flowers, birds, trees, mountains, beaches and colorful hot air balloons…. contemplating the marvels of God’s creation.
Bill traveled the United States exploring new places; and, after marrying Judy, they traveled to visit family all over the country. His travels also included foreign countries such as Paris, France, and Ensenada, Mexico. His love for family and children are evident from numerous photos, including many with children sitting on his lap and doing activities with him. Bill was the kind of guy that if you needed help, he was there to help you. He was a quiet, humble and gentle man.
Bill was a Son, Husband, Brother and a Father. He was and is loved by many. A gentle giant with a big heart. Bill lived a wonderful 78 year life full of love, laughter, duty & adventure!
He was preceded in death by his parents, William H., Sr. & Elsie Erbele; two siblings, Larry H. & Lois E. Erbele; his brother – in – law, Marc Davis, Sr.; his wife of 34 years, Judith A. Erbele; and his stepson, D. Paul Appenfelder.
Left to cherish his memory are his four sisters, Pat A. Erbele, Gloria J. Erbele, Linda S. Erbele Gehring with her three children & Regina M. Erbele Davis with her three children; 3 of his 4 step – children, Peggy R. Grant, Bruce W. Appenfelder and Rebecca M. Appenfelder; plus, a host of other relatives and friends to celebrate his life.
Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. in the Dignity Chapel of the Evergreen Funeral Home. Bill will be laid to rest in the Garden of Eternal Love of the Evergreen Cemetery & Garden Mausoleums, where he will rest for eternity. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 from 10:30 a.m. until the hour of service at 12:00 p.m. also at the Evergreen Funeral Home.
