William (Bill) Frank Mortl, Jr. passed away in Mesa AZ, after a long battle with illness.
Bill was born December 21st, 1944, in Milwaukee Wisconsin to William Frank Mortl, Sr. and Angela (Turk) Mortl. Bill was a proud U.S. Navy veteran and served in Washington DC. It was during this time that he met his wife. Bill married Linda Ellis from the Washington DC area in 1970 and they were married for over 54 years. In 1976, they welcomed their only son – William Michael Mortl.
Professionally, Bill spent nearly the entirety of his career (30+ years) as a Mechanical Engineer for Caterpillar Tractor Company in Montgomery, Illinois. Afterwards, he worked as a engineering consultant and returned to Caterpillar for five additional years before finally retiring.
In his free time, in addition to being a wonderful and supportive father, Bill was a Cub Scout leader and guided his entire den to the Arrow of Light award. He also spent several years as a Boy Scout leader in Troop 34 (Bristol, IL). Additionally, he had a lifelong interest in space and astronomy and was a one-time member of the Aurora Amateur Astronomy Association. Bill was an avid camper;.He and his family traveled all over the United States – sometimes camping in a tent, and later in a RV. During his travels, Bill fell in love with Arizona. He and his wife moved to Mesa in October of 2017. Bill was a gun enthusiast and was a member of the Payson Gun Club. He was also an animal rescue advocate and rescued several animals that became part of the family.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother Angela Mortl, his father William Frank Mortl Sr., and his brother Douglas Mortl. Bill is survived by his wife Linda Mortl, his son William Michael Mortl (Karin Mortl), his two grandsons Henry and Caden Mortl, his two sisters Mary Fraser and Nancy Coughlin, his sister-in-law Sharon Wilke Mortl, as well as many nieces and nephews.
It’s difficult to describe a man’s life that consisted of so many moments of quiet significance. Bill was well liked by the many peers he connected with over the years, and most importantly – he was loved by his wife and son. His passing has left a mighty void. He will continue to be loved and missed every day.
A private memorial will be held at a later date.
Linda I’m so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I pray for you and your family to have peace and comfort. I hope all of your good memories help you through this difficult time.
Linda I’m so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I pray for you and your family to have peace and comfort. I hope all of your good memories help you through this difficult time.