William L. “Bill” Rich, 81, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday afternoon, April 2, 2025, at his home in Delhi, Iowa.

William Lewis Rich was born on August 16, 1943 in Webb City, Missouri, to William Henry and Elizabeth “Liz” (Powell) Rich.  Bill graduated from Webb City High School and went on to serve his country with distinction in the U.S. Air Force. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to civilian life and married the love of his life, Sandra Jean Gleason Manderscheid, on May 6, 1977, in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Professionally, Bill was a dedicated employee at Northwestern Bell in Clinton and later Maquoketa. 1n 1982, he purchased B & E Machine Company in Clinton, Iowa, where he proudly took on the role of the second-generation owner. He retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to his employees and community.

His interests were grounded in the simple pleasures of life. He had a passion for camping and could often be found splitting wood, a testament to his love for the outdoors. Golf was another of his favorite pastimes, as well as watching war movies, on television.  However, the centerpiece of Bill’s life was undoubtedly his family. He took immense pride in following the lives of his grandchildren, celebrating their achievements and supporting them through every stage of life

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Jeff (Debbie) Manderscheid of Maquoketa, IA, Craig (Pam) Manderscheid of Zwingle, IA, Christie Manderscheid of Dubuque, IA, Jodi (Adam) Watters of Mesa, AZ, Bill J. Rich of Maquoketa, IA, Lisa (Bubba Creasy) Rich of Valdosta, GA, and Jennifer Rich of Augusta, GA; 14 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren; sister, Barbara Dorman of TX; and his special dog Duke.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sandra on April 3, 2022, a son Mike, and a brother Michael “Mike” Rich.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 P.M., Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a William L. “Bill” Rich memorial fund has been established.

Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.