William “Bill” Lentz

William “Bill” J. Lentz Jr., lifelong Alaskan, died February 22, 2020 at his home in Palmer.

Bill, a “Colony Kid” was born May 21, 1938 in Palmer to Colonist Bill and Viola Lentz.

He grew up on the Lentz Colony farm, which is now the Musk Ox Farm. Bill graduated from Palmer High School in 1956.

In 1973 he married the love of his life, Phyllis Thomas. Bill worked as a truck driver for many years and then he and Phyllis operated Valley Wrecking in Palmer.

Bill enjoyed hunting, snowmachining, gardening, woodcarving and spending time with family and friends.

Bill had a great sense of humor and was a delightful storyteller. In retirement he became an avid reader and enjoyed working crossword puzzles.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Viola Lentz, his beloved wife Phyllis, stepchildren Clinton Stearns and Ann Conn and lifelong best friend Jim McNeese.

He is survived by his brother Bob (Mary Jo) of Wasilla, sisters Barbara Thomas of Wasilla, Dolores (Bill) Butler of Homer, Caroline (Carl) Riley of New Mexico, Dorothy (Phil) Klein of Minnesota and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bill is also survived by his stepchildren Susan Jones of Oregon, Wayne Stearns of Fairbanks, Laura Dalsky of Washington, Marion Heffelfinger of Palmer and step granddaughter Rachael Richardson and family of Wasilla.

He had a special bond with Marion who was his caregiver during his final years. He is also survived by his “special kids” the McNeese girls Teri, Dawn and Kalea.

The service that was postponed due to the COVID-19 virus is now scheduled for 2 p.m., Saturday June 27, at St John Lutheran Church, 440 E. Elmwood in Palmer, with the Rev. Johnathan Rockey presiding. A reception follows in the fellowship hall.

Donations may be made to the Friends of the Musk Ox, PO Box 587, Palmer. AK 99645

Wasilla Heritage Chapel cared for the family.