William I. "Bill" Pontius, Sr

71, of Van Wert, died at 6:45 a.m. Thursday, April 05, 2007, at his residence.

He was born March 12, 1936, in Van Wert Ohio, the son of the late Burdett and Mildred (Jackson) Pontius. On June 07,1955 he married Margaret M (Scott) Pontius, who survives at home.

Mr. Pontius had retired from the former Sonoco (Continental Can Co.), Hewas a of Wesley United Methodist Church. He also had been a member of the Ohio National Guard, having served in Vietnam, he is a life member of the Van Wert American Legion Post 178.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, all from Van Wert: William I. and (Peggy) Pontius Jr.; M. Dian Collins (Bruce Couts); Dean Dale Pontius; Michael L. (Dawn) Pontius; Sharon M. Orskog (Joe Bassett); Kirk Lynn Pontius; 19 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one one Aunt, Velma Brewer; and one Uncle, Burt Pontius.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 10th, at the Funeral Home, with the Rev. Paul George Reed, O.D.S. officiating.

Visitation is from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Monday, April 09, 2007 at the funeral home. Private internment will be at Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill, Ohio.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Community Health Professionals Hospice.