William Thomas Mendenhall, 87, Defiance, died with his loved ones by his side on June 8, 2014. 

He was born July 20, 1927, in Celina, to Ruth and Belva Mendenhall.

On June 7, 1954, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Jane Guyer. 

He is also survived by his children, Tom (Kerry) Mendenhall, Don Mendenhall, and Julie (Keith) Belau; grandchildren, Will, Molly (Evan Bollie), Katie (Josh Armstrong),  Kylie, Kurt, Nick, Donald and Bryce; great-grandchildren, Beckam Thomas and Lane McKeen Bollie; and Smalley nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jerry and Don. 

He attended The Ohio State University and in 1945 enlisted in the U.S. Navy. A self-made man, he proudly co-owned Stauffer-Mendenhall Insurance with Ralph "Pep" Stauffer. His honest and strong work ethic helped build his company for a life-long career of 37 years. After retirement, he continued to enjoy the special relationships he had with Larry Wood, Tim Whetstone and Steve Grosenbacher while they were at the insurance agency. He contributed to his community by serving on Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, Elks, St. Paul's Lutheran Church council and Kettenring Country Club and as treasurer for Republican Ben Gaeth. Although his contributions were many, he was best known for his love of family. His extraordinary generosity, humble nature, endearing sense of humor, genuine kindness and unconditional acceptance of everyone touched many lives. He absolutely loved his life, friends and family. He will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Defiance, the Rev. David Brobston officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.  

Calling is 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance, and one hour prior to the time of services at the church on Friday. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be left at www.schafferfh.com.