William A. Church

William A. Church, 84, of Washington, died Monday, April 19, 2010, in his residence. He was born December 30, 1925, in Washington, a son of Charles W. and Grace Irene Rodocker Church. Mr. Church attended Washington High School. He was unable to graduate with his class due to joining the Navy at age 17 to serve in World War II. However, Mr. Church had the honor of graduating from Washington High School in 2001, with his grandson, Jason M. Church. His naval service took him to Japan and the Aleutian Islands. He was honorably discharged on December 21, 1945, with a rank of Gunner’s Mate, second class. Mr. Church worked as a welder at Jessop Steel for 35 years. He attended Avery United Methodist Church, and was a member of Edwin Scott Linton Post 175 of the American Legion and the Jessop Club. Mr. Church enjoyed bowling and building models. He leaves behind his dog, Max. On July 6, 1951, he married Mary Virginia Rhoades, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, William A. and Jeffrey A. Church, both of Washington; three brothers, Jim Church of Washington, Jack Church of San Diego and Jerry Church of Washington; and four grandchildren, Adaira Rufer, Jason M. Church, Spencer W. Church and George Rufer. Deceased are a son, Robert R. Church; two brothers, Robert and Chuck; and a sister, Bonnie Church. Friends will be received 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 22nd, in Avery United Methodist Church, 1100 Gabby Avenue, Washington, with Rev. Ruth Lantz Simmons officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post 175.