William “Bill” Robert Green, 97, of Owensville, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, at his home. His wife of 71 years, Delores Hanson Green, was next to him and held his hand as he left this world.
Bill was born Nov. 16, 1926, to Everett and Mazy Moran Green in Mullens, W.Va. He was the last surviving sibling from his family of eight children, brothers Roba, Everett Jr, and Gilbert, and sisters Thelma, Mabel, Dorothy, and Betty. These families left behind several loving nieces and nephews.
William served in WWII as a Sergeant for the U.S. Army 795th Military Police Battalion in Manila, Philippines.
After his military service, Bill earned a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering from the University of West Virginia in 1953. While earning his degree, he met an institutional administrator by the name of Delores Hanson. She was employed by the university where she interviewed and developed meal plans for the collegiate men in the dining hall. When Delores’ family visited campus, she pointed to Bill and said, “That’s the man I plan to marry.”
William and Delores were married on July 3, 1953, in Fredericktown, Pa.
Bill was grateful for his education provided through the GI Bill. He was the first of his family to graduate from college. Higher education was extremely important to him, and he supported all of his children and seven grandchildren through college resulting in over 18 degrees.
Bill was proud to be a citizen of Owensville, a place he called home since 1962. He was the plant manager for Allied Chemical until its closure. He admired the work ethic of the people of Owensville and believed in the importance of industry for thriving communities.
Throughout his life, Bill was active in the Lion’s Club, served as a Gasconade County Commissioner, and supported St. Peter’s United Church of Christ.
He was an honest and humble great-grandfather, grandfather, father, and a devoted husband. Bill kept this note in his office: “The most important thing you can do for your children is to love their mother.” His life lessons will live on through his family, daughter Debra Green Brunner (Mark), son David Green (Michelle), son Jeffrey Green (Melissa Stason), seven grandchildren Daniel (Jessica), Andrew (Katherine), Julia, Rachel, Logan (Emma), Noah (Kelsey), and Cooper, and five great-grandchildren Avery and Corbin Green, Liliane and John Brunner, and Juniper Brunner.
A service will be held in Owensville this fall. If you wish to honor Bill Green, please send memorial gifts to the Owensville Senior Center, 214 N 1st St., Owensville, Mo. 65066. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gottenstroeter Funeral Home.
