BILL DIED! GOLF CLUBS FOR SALE!
This is all that he wanted written, but as a family we think he deserves the proper recognition for a life well lived.
Bill was born to William and Joan (Lemon) Brendlinger on February 28, 1956 in Camden, New Jersey. In his early years, Bill and his family moved several times from Haddon Heights, New Jersey, to Winnetka, Illinois to Coshochton, Ohio and finally landing in Oskaloosa, Iowa in 1970. Bill graduated Oskaloosa High School in 1975. After high school, Bill led a colorful life until he met Bettie (Thomas) and her four girls. Bill and Bettie were married in 1986 in a small ceremony in Beacon Iowa. Bill always said, “Nothing scares me, I raised four girls”.
Bill worked many years at Clow Foundry in Oskaloosa then continued his education. He began by earning an Associate Degree from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa. A Bachler’s Degree at Central College in Pella, Iowa and finally earning a Master’s Degee at the University of Iowa. Over the years while Bill furthered his education, he was a substitute teacher in Oskaloosa and Knoxville schools, helping many students along the way. Bill also spent several years as the Mayor of Beacon. He was the person responsible for getting the road paved between Hwy 92 and the Beacon road when the bypass was installed.
Bill and Bettie moved to Iowa City in 1998. After Bill received his Master’s degree, he taught several years at West Branch High School. Bill was also a Speech and Debate Coach, and anyone who knew Bill knows he loved to debate no matter the topic. He later became an adjunct Professor at Kirkwood Community College
Bill was an avid poker player, enjoyed golfing, swimming and spending time with his family.
Bill is survived by his wife Bettie, his daughters, Jodie (Anne) Schimke and Laura Mickels. Son-in-law, Denny O’Leary. Grandchildren: Ashlie (Dan) Sweeting, Tara (Colton) Showman, Micayla (Daniel) Flemming, Brayden (Kyla) Wald, Kaidyn Mickels, Morgan (Brandt Robinson) Pettyjohn, Awstin Pettyjohn, Shelbie Pettyjohn, Brinden O’Leary and Taryn O’Leary. 8 great-grandchildren, and his beloved dogs Whitney and Dora. He is also survived by his siblings, Barb (Craig) Pfannkuche, Nancy (David Sears) Brendlinger, George (Luanne) Brendlinger, and brother-in-law, Richard Thomas, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Margaret Brendlinger, two daughters, Amy Pettyjohn and Randi Jo O’Leary, and a son-in-law, Larry Pettyjohn. He was also preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Joyce Thomas, and nephew, Danny Thomas.
Per Bill’s wishes, his body has been cremated. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date.
“You know you’re my favorite, right?”
