William (Bill) J. Falkner (87) of Ottumwa, surrounded by family and friends, went home to his Lord and Savior on October 8, 2025.
He was born to Charles and Irene Falkner on September 14, 1938, in Plant City, Florida and was the youngest of 3 children. He spent most of his youth in Florida until he entered the Navy in 1955. After the Navy, his adult years were spent in North Dakota, North Carolina and Iowa, working in heavy industry as a maintenance technician. He was also a certified plumber and electrician. Bill could fix most anything with what he called “southern engineering.” He loved gardening and raised a bounty of tomatoes and cucumbers each year which he enjoyed sharing with his friends and neighbors. Bill had a life-long passion for fishing. He enjoyed both the solitude of fishing alone or sharing an exaggerated tale with a friend. His fishing buddies still recall his unique style of floating in an inner tube with a pole in hand.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Virginia L. Falkner, 2 sons, Bill Jr. (Kathy) of Florida and Randy (Meera) of Texas and a stepdaughter, Diana (Dave) Clay of Arizona, 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters, 1 brother and a stepson.
As was Bill’s wish his body has been cremated and a private family burial will take place at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the family.
