William J. Esterline, M.D.

William J. Esterline, M.D., affectionately known as 'Bill', passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at his home in Albion, Indiana with his loving wife and sister by his side.  Born June 6, 1955, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a son of the late Howard and Charlene (Forker) Esterline.

A lifelong Christian, Bill grew up attending Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church and school and is currently a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Columbia City. He went on to graduate Carroll High School with the Class of 1973. Bill was also a graduate of IU with high distinction, graduated Yale Medical School and also Ohio State for Cardiothoracic Surgery.

On, November 23, 2012, Bill and Terrie fulfilled their "second chance at first love" and were married in Fort Wayne, Indiana at the Botanical Gardens.  On, May 3, 2013, they bought their dream home on Big Lake, his favorite place, where he grew up visiting his grandparents' homes on the lake.  Growing up he envisioned boating and ice fishing there at retirement.

Bill led a remarkable life dedicated to saving others as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon in Columbus, Ohio for 23 years before retiring in 2015. Despite his successful medical career, he never let being a doctor define him. His proudest moments were when he was fulfilling his role as a father/grandfather, a testament to his down-to-earth and kind-hearted nature.

A man of many talents and interests, Bill was not only known for his medical expertise but also for his skills in the kitchen as a great cook. He found joy in wintering in Florida, fishing on his boat, listening/playing music, and tending to his garden.

He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army Medical Reserves for 12 years.  Bill was always willing to help those around him and displayed exceptional generosity without ever seeking recognition for his actions. 

His memory will forever be cherished by his family including his beloved wife, Terrie Esterline; Bill's children, Justin (Cortnie) Esterline, Lucas Esterline, Cody (George Nelson) Esterline; Terrie's children, Tiffany Grabner, Brittany Grabner, Derek Grabner; grandchildren, Quinn, Kamryn, Kinsley, Riley, and another grandson on the way; brother Dan (Dawn) Esterline; sister Linda (William) Toth; uncles, Thomas Esterline and Jack Esterline.

Visitation will be 12:00 - 2:00 pm and 4:00 - 6:00 pm, Sunday, June 2, 2024, at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be 11:00 am Monday, June 3, 2024, with calling one-hour prior also at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Thorn Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given in memory of Bill to Wounded Warrior Project. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send William's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.