William Franklin Tozer

William Parker, CO Franklin Tozer William (Bill) Franklin Tozer died peacefully after a brief illness on December 7, 2024, at his home in Parker, Colorado.

Born in Beech Grove, Indiana in 1941 to William and Catherine Tozer, Bill spent his early childhood in Indianapolis before moving to Brazil, Indiana where he graduated from Brazil High School. After earning his Bachelor of Science at Indiana State College, he earned a Master of Science degree in Physics at Purdue University. He later settled in Pendleton, Indiana with his wife Patrice, where they raised four children.

Bill was a devoted husband and father, who was always involved in his children's activities. He spent most of his career as a beloved physics and science teacher at Madison Heights High School in Anderson, Indiana. After retirement in 2006, he moved to Parker, Colorado to be near to grandchildren.

In his free time, Bill was an avid caver. He was very active in the Central Indiana Grotto, holding many positions in the group including Editor of the CIG newsletter. He was also involved in the National Speleological Society, where he ultimately served as President. He loved getting underground and took his children caving from a young age in addition to introducing many other youth groups to caving. He loved to tell crazy adventure stories of descending pits and exploring caves.

Bill spent much time outdoors gardening, growing food for the family, and tending his trees and his "wild area." He never knew a stranger and loved to discuss all things science or caving related.

He is survived by his wife, Patrice, four children, Mark (Tara) Tozer of Lake Mary, Florida, Kathleen (James) Fink of Madison, Wisconsin, Deborah Tozer (Tony Keever) of Parker, Colorado, Michelle (Scott) Robinette of Parker, Colorado, 11 grandchildren, his sisters Linda Smiley, Mary Ellen Tozer, Marcia Tozer, and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Richard, and nephew Patrick.

Funeral arrangements will be made in the future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the National Speleological Society, by mail at 6001 Pulaski Pike, Huntsville, AL 35810, or electronically at http://caves.org.