Thursday, October 1, 2026
William “Bill” Sheldon, born on Jan. 14, 1926, in Plymouth, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Olympia, Washington, at the proud age of 100. He lived a life marked by resilience, loyalty and humor, embodying the spirit of a generation that has left an indelible mark upon our hearts.
Bill's early years were shaped by the challenges of growing up in poverty, yet this adversity did not hinder his ambitions. He demonstrated a strong work ethic from a young age, shining shoes, working on a truck farm, and later contributing to the steel industry by removing slag from furnaces. After high school, his career took a significant turn when, at 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II, where he served as part of a plane crew in the Pacific Theater, an experience that he recalled proudly the rest of his life.
Post-war, Bill embarked on a fruitful career as a clerk at Ford Jet Engine Manufacturing, later becoming the inventory manager at Studebaker's jet engine division, and eventually transitioning into a role as a computer specialist for the U.S. federal government. His work was not just a job, but a reflection of his ambition and dedication.
Bill's life was also richly woven with love and adventure. He married the love of his life, Eleanor L. Owen, on June 28, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois. Together, they traveled across all 50 states and several European countries, finding joy in the simplest pleasures — like flying small planes for breakfast adventures. Bill and Eleanor shared nearly 77 wonderful years of marriage until her passing on April 6, 2024, leaving a legacy filled with love and cherished memories.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Jean Sheldon of Springfield, Illinois, his sons, Thomas Sheldon of Lancaster, Kentucky, and Robert Sheldon of Olympia, Washington, and his brother, Robert Sheldon of Swoyersville, Pennsylvania. Additionally, Bill was a proud grandfather to two grandchildren and a great-grandfather to one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his son, William Sheldon, who was killed in the Vietnam War in 1968, and his parents, Charles Sheldon and Jean Martin.
Bill's personality was a beautiful blend of kindness, honesty, loyalty, ambition and humor — a true friend and a beloved father and grandfather. His interests included stone masonry and collecting and polishing stones, which spoke to his appreciation for the natural world, as well as his adventures in flying.
Although we mourn Bill's loss, we also celebrate a long life well-lived. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering spirit that will forever remain in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to PAWS at PO Box 3771, Seattle, WA 98124-3771 or via their website or by phone at 425-412-4041.
To view the obituary for Eleanor L. Sheldon, click here.
