- William "Bill" R. Huntington III, age 80, died on August 17, 2021, in Corvallis, Oregon.
Mr. Huntington is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Sharon (Trollinger) Huntington; children, Beth Lysne and William "Billy" Huntington IV; and stepsons, Howard Aerni, Gary Aerni, and Craig (Rita) Aerni. He also leaves behind his ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, whose company brought him much joy.
Born August 26, 1940, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania to William Roy Huntington Jr. and Ada Sprout. Older brother to his four siblings Betty Jo Jones, Brenda Taynton, Faith Smith, and Russell Huntington. Upon completing high school, he enrolled in the United States Marine Corps to serve others and his country. During his 26+ year career in the Marines Corps, he was stationed all over the United States but Pennsylvania and Oregon were his homes.
Bill, also referred to as "Top", was a veteran of the Vietnam War and served three tours of duty. He earned numerous honors including the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Presidential Unit Citation. As a disciplined leader, who valued teamwork, he served in the roles of combat engineer, engineering operations chief, maintenance management, and recruiter. He retired as a distinguished Combat Engineer Master Gunnery Sergeant. After his military service, he worked for the South Williamsport School District.
In addition to his working career, Bill was involved with the community through the Ready Roamers RV Chapter, Marine Corps League, Rocky Mountain Elks Foundation, and American Legion.
His greatest passions were traveling across the United States to see his loved ones or taking his children and grandchildren on adventures including camping, fishing, and hunting. Additionally, he enjoyed utilizing his green thumb to grow an inspiring garden; planning RVing trips or reunions for his fellow Marines; helping anyone who needed him; and entertaining everyone with his perfect turkey call and bewildering their pets.
A memorial service is being planned for the Spring/Summer of 2022 for family and close friends. In place of flowers, please consider a donation to a fund at the Gary Sinise Foundation (https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate/) honoring veterans, first responders and their families.
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1940 - 2021 (80 years)
