William "Bill" Pelkey

William “Bill” Pelkey passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose love for others and steady faith guided every part of his life.

Bill was born January 22, 1936, in Escanaba, Michigan to Ralph and Myrtle Pelkey. He was married to Ruth (Giese) Pelkey for 66 years, and together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and commitment. They were married at the Methodist Church in Roberts, Illinois, and their union became the heart of a family that grew strong under their care.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he worked as a welder and later as a welding instructor. His service also included time as a drill sergeant, a role that reflected both his leadership and his dedication to helping others reach their potential. After leaving the military, Bill continued teaching at Danville Area Community College, sharing his skill and passion for welding with countless students.

His professional life evolved into a long and successful career in welding-supply sales, where his integrity and genuine care for people made him well respected. He later joined Fountain Trust as an insurance agent, a position he loved because it allowed him to help others meet their needs and protect their families. Bill retired roughly 20 years ago but never stopped mentoring, advising, or encouraging those around him.

Outside of work, Bill was deeply family-centered. He and Ruth raised four children, and when they were young, he could often be found coaching his sons’ sports teams, taking the family camping and fishing, or grilling out in the backyard. Years ago, he enjoyed woodworking and created many treasured keepsakes for his loved ones. His model train set paid tribute to his father, who had been a railroad conductor—a reminder of the value Bill placed on family history and connection.

In retirement, Bill’s interests turned to watching old westerns and war movies, playing cards—poker in particular—and spending time with his grandchildren. His family remembers him as a man who was “driven by his unwavering faith, loving wife, and family,” always giving his full self to whatever he did.

Though he enjoyed a number of leisure activities and hobbies throughout the years, there were a few constants: support for the United Methodist Church, the broader Covington community, and those he came into contact with through his years of support for the American Legion and VFW. Anyone who spent any amount of time with Bill would have walked away with a profound belief in making the most of the precious time we have to influence a better version of oneself and those around you.”

Bill is survived by loving wife Ruth, four children; Rick Pelkey of Danville, IL, Debbie (Dave) Iams of McCordsville, IN, Mike (Beth) Pelkey of Wadsworth, OH, Bob (Allyson) Pelkey of Crawfordsville, IN, sister, Gayle Cunningham of South Dakota, nine grandchildren; Toshia, Tyler (Allie), Abbie, Heath, Logan, Laryn, Brooke, Nate, and Brett, and four great-grandchildren; Tylan, Jayson, Devren, and Millie, as well as another great-grandchild on the way. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his siblings, Joyce and Dick.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 21st at 2pm at the United Methodist Church in Covington, with Pastor Noel Whiteman officiating.

Arrangements entrusted to Shelby & Keller Funeral Home 622 3rd St., Covington, IN 47932 | (765) 793-2221 | www.shelbykellerfh.com