William Clyde Burmeister, age 79, of Defiance, passed away on  June 14, 2023 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born on June 30, 1943 to the late Joseph and Rose (DeFleece) Burmeister in Trenton, NJ. William proudly served our country in the U.S. Marine Corp. from 1960 to 1964 during the Vietnam War. He worked as a General Foreman for US Pipe for many years. On December 2, 1972 he married Diane Stelle and she survives. William was an avid fisherman, fishing anytime of day or night. He loved gardening and would often donate his produce to Fort Wayne shelters. He enjoyed painting and building models. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be missed by many family members and friends. William is survived by his loving spouse of 50 years Diane, children, Sherry Wallace of Defiance, Sheryl Beck of Beverly, NJ, adopted daughter, Amber Louderback of Defiance, 5 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, sister Joan Hall of Hamilton, NJ, and a brother, Albert Furth, Jr. of FL. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Rosalie Burmeister, a son, William Burmeister, Jr, and a brother, Waryne Beaumeister. Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at Riverside Cemetery in Defiance, with military honors. Memorials are suggested to the Friends of Felines.