William John Ertle II

William John Ertle ll, 71, of Millsboro, Delaware A proud and respected Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, William John Ertle II, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025.
Born on December 26, 1953, in Jersey City, New Jersey, William was the son of the late William John Ertle Sr. and Shirley Ertle. After graduating from Middletown High School in New Jersey, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in June 1971.
During his 14 years of active and reserve service, William rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. His distinguished military career included assignments at Parris Island, South Carolina; Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Marine Barracks, 8th & I, Washington, D.C.; and Marine Aircraft Wing 49 at Willow Grove Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Pennsylvania.
Following his military service, William built a successful career in the aviation industry, serving as an FAA Compliance Officer. He retired from Aloft AeroArchitects in Georgetown, Delaware, in 2024. He enjoyed camping, billiards, dancing, golfing and spending time with his family and friends. William was very active with Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, the Marine Corps League at his local American Legion Post 28 and Amvets Post 2 in Delaware.
William is survived by his wife of 19 years, Janet (Bonczek) Ertle and their four children: William John Ertle lll (spouse Susan) of Franklin, Massachusetts, Laurie Saccani (spouse Jeff) of Rostraver Township, Pennsylvania, Douglas Black of Sarasota, Florida and Gregory Black of McKeesport, Pennsylvania. He was a proud grandfather to Lindsay Henderson (spouse Angel), Ashley Walker (spouse Chase), Lucas Black, Kendal Black, William lV "Jack" Ertle and Dylan Ertle, and a great-granddaughter Kahlia Henderson.
He is also survived by brothers Donald Ertle (spouse Donna) of Bayville, New Jersey, Armond Ertle of Pompano Beach, Florida and Lawrence Ertle (spouse Denise) of West Caldwell, New Jersey; as well as his beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his nephew Lucas Ertle.
A private Military funeral service will be held for William at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Willam's name to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots – Nassau, Delaware. Donations may be made through the Nassau chapter's website, nassau-de.toysfortots.org, or by contacting them via email at nassau.de@toysfortots.org or by phone at (302) 450-2466.