William (Bill) L. Haupt, 69, of Centre Hall died peacefully and unexpectedly at his home Wednesday, March 18, 2009.
He was born January 3, 1940, a son of Dorothy Meyer Haupt Royer who survives in Centre Hall, and the late William N. Haupt.
He married Nancy B. Bierly, Sept. 23, 1960, who survives at home.
Mr. Haupt served in the U. S. Air Force from 1957 to 1979 earning the rank of Technical Sergeant. During his service tenure, he served in Taiwan, Alaska and Vietnam along with being stationed in many other areas. He earned a Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, an Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Oak Leaf Clusters, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal with one Oak Leaf, a Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device, an Army Occupation Medal, and an Air Force Commendation Medal.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, he worked in the mail-room at HRB, at Twin View Nursery, and worked for Burns Security.
An avid gun enthusiast, Bill was a life member of the NRA; a member of the Millheim Bowling League, American Legion Post 779 at Old Fort; associated with St. John United Church of Christ in Bellefonte and was a former member of the Centre Hall Lions Club. He enjoyed the out of doors and woodworking.
In addition to his wife and mother he is survived by a daughter Melanie A. Haupt who survives at home; and one sister Judith A. Taylor and her husband Calvin of Centre Hall; a half sister Ellen Haupt of Julian; and three half brothers, Eric and Bruce Haupt both of Bellefonte, and Phillip Haupt of Port Matilda.
His father; step father Harry E. Royer; a sister Bonnie J. Geise; and a brother Michael A. Royer preceded him death.
Friends will be received from 6 - 8 p. m. Friday, March 20, 2009, at Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Service, 226 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Centre Hall, PA A memorial service will follow at 8:00 p. m. at the funeral home with the Reverend Anne Smith officiating. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Arc of Centre County 1840 N. Atherton St. State College, PA 16803
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.