William Krontz

William Eugene Krontz, age 95 of Sturgis, Michigan, passed away early Tuesday morning June 17, 2025, at his home with his son at his side.
He was born August 29, 1929, in Sturgis, Michigan, son of the late William and Dorothy (Lough) Krontz.
Bill was a lifelong Sturgis resident and graduate of Sturgis High School with the class of 1947.
In March 1953 he married F. Betty Friend in Michigan City, Indiana. She preceded him in death February 27, 2020.
Shortly following his graduation from high school Bill enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, Strategic Air Command, 91st Reconnaissance division serving from 1947 – December 31, 1951. Bill was involved in arial photography reconnaissance over Korea and from the ariel photographs he handled the drawing of topographical maps that started the Korean War. He traveled aboard to many states and Okinawa, Japan where he was stationed for most of his enlistment.
Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force Bill returned to Sturgis and soon established Bill's Construction along with his brother-in-law Frank Friend until 1978. Bill and Frank were proud of the fact they built 26 Wick Homes in two years throughout St. Joseph County. In 1978 he decided he wanted to own and operate a machine shop and opened Krontz General Machine and Tool. The business continues in operation today managed by his son and grandson. Bill continued to work in the shop until a few short weeks before his death.
Bill was a member of Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 VFW and Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion both in Sturgis. He enjoyed WORKING, collecting, shooting and building guns, attending car shows and was proud of his 1940 Chevy. Bill loved time with family, especially his two grandsons.
He is survived by his son: Roger Krontz of Sturgis; grandsons: Noah Krontz and Nick Krontz; special friends that were like sons to Bill and Betty: Tim Pendelton, Dean Britt, Don Tisdel and Greg Sirna ; sister: Cora Krontz of Sturgis and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, four brothers and three sisters.
In honoring Bill's wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 9:30 – 11:30 A.M., Saturday, July 19th at Rosenberg Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 807 E. Chicago Rd. in Sturgis where memorial services celebrating the life of William E. Krontz will immediately follow the visitation at 11:30 A.M. Pastor J.T. Zehr of Bridges Community Church will officiate. Following the service a Chicken lunch will be held at the VFW in Sturgis. The Museum and monuments that Bill conceived and constructed with help of some members of the community will be open for visitation as well. Interment of the remains will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Full military honors will be conferred by Fort Custer Honor Guard and U.S. Air Force Honor Guard.
Memorial donations would be appreciated to Elara Caring Hospice, 4664 Campus Drive, Suite 101A, Kalamazoo, MI 49008.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.