William (Bill) Leroy Raffensperger

February 08, 1950 — May 09, 2025

William Raffensperger

Service Details

William (Bill) Leroy Raffensperger, age 75, passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on May 9, 2025, after suffering a brief illness.

Bill was born on February 8, 1950, in Stuart, Iowa. He was the third child born to his parents, James and Marian Raffensperger. Bill grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Saydel High School, Class of 1968. He worked as a laborer and was a member of Laborers Local 177. He was a dedicated Union Member and enjoyed attending the Labor Day Parades with his grandchildren.

Bill married Carole Ellis in 1985 and had one daughter, Megan Raffensperger. After his early retirement in 2009, he enjoyed doing yard work, taking care of his dog Sophie and his Little Kitty, watching the History Channel and WWE Wrestling, feeding the hummingbirds, and spending time with his family and friends.

Bill was known for his strong will and no-nonsense attitude. He was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle and friend. He leaves a legacy of love, generosity, and resilience.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother James Raffensperger, sister Sheryl VanZandt, stepson Steven Farnsworth, and stepdaughter Jodi Thomas.

Left to cherish is memory are his wife Carole, daughter Megan (Brian), grandchildren Gavin and Vivian, stepdaughters Dawn Ellis (John) and Kristen Ellis (Andrew), many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brother-in-law Don VanZandt, nieces Shanna and Stacey, and his best friends Bill Kingery, Larry Cox, Rusty Beebe, Skip Howard, and Bob Peterson.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral service and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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