William “Bill” C. Longenberger

William “Bill” C. Longenberger, 95, of Bluffton, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, March 10, 2026, at Christian Care Retirement Community, surrounded by his family.

Born in Adams County on May 8, 1930, to Ernest and Pearl (Frauhiger) Longenberger, Bill graduated from Kirkland High School in 1948. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1953. On July 23, 1950, he married Betty Isch in Bluffton; the two shared 75 years of marriage.

Bill retired from Colonial Bakery after 26 years as a route salesman. He then spent another 20 years in maintenance for Old First National Bank and Farmers and Merchants Bank. A lifelong member of the Apostolic Christian Church, he was a devoted Indiana University fan who coached youth baseball when his children were young. In later years he enjoyed golfing and, above all, attending games and activities to cheer on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those who knew him will remember his positive attitude, outgoing personality, and genuine care for others. He was a true people-person who remained content throughout his life.

Bill is survived by his wife Betty; daughter Sandy (Dave) Spade of Fishers; sons Gene (Joni) Longenberger of Craigville, Mark Longenberger of Bluffton, and Scott (Cris) Longenberger of Ossian; 11 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter-in-law, Sherri Longenberger; sisters Lucille Bucher, Helen Redding, and Betty Bertsch; and brothers Harry, Roger, and Richard Longenberger.