An obituary is a brief space to describe one who lived a long, meaningful life. A summarized selection of ordinary words that cannot properly honor such an extraordinary soul. It is a space on a newsprint for family to share memories, but rather we hope that you read this and reflect on a special moment or unique way that Bill touched your life as he did all of ours.

William D. Bachtel, 87, Norton, Ohio passed away peacefully in his home encircled and embraced by his loving family on January 27th, 2025.

Bill was born on November 8th, 1937 to George & Nettie Bachtel in Akron, Ohio.

After Bill turned 17 years old and after the passing of his father George, he began his career as a proud United Auto Worker at the Ford Motor Company to provide for his family as the oldest sibling of eleven brothers and sisters. He retired from Ford 42 years later.

Bill loved the time he spent at Ford, but he loved his wife most. He met the love of his life Gail at the age of 16, married her in 1958 and then spent the rest of his life making her happy while raising two beautiful daughters.

In retirement, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, being a loving grandfather “Pap” to his grandchildren and working on his 1951 Ford. He was the President of the Magic City Car Club for years.

Bill cherished the Bachtel legacy and his large family. He is predeceased by his father George, mother Nettie, baby sister Delores, beloved sister Betty and brothers Paul, Gayle and Bob. He is survived by his wife Gail Bachtel, oldest daughter Kandy Jones, son in law Rich Jones, granddaughter Ilsa Jones, youngest daughter Sherrie Hayes, son in law Tom Hayes, grandson Tommy Hayes, granddaughter Hannah Hayes. He is also survived by his brothers Harold and Carl, sisters Darlene, Marlene, Charlene, and Jolene, and many nieces & nephews.

Calling hours will be from 1pm - 3pm on Wednesday, February 5th with a service immediately following at Cox-McNulty Funeral Home in Barberton, Ohio. The burial service will be held at 11am on Thursday, February 6th.