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PELZ -- Bill Pelz, age 86, a resident of Rio Rancho since 1981, died in Albuquerque, NM on July 25, 2009. Bill was born May 11, 1923 in La Porte, IN, the son of William Edward and Katherine (Reickel) Pelz. During his highs school years, Bill met Sally Collins. It was "love at first sight". Even though they attended different schools, their loved blossomed. They married before he went overseas during WWII. Little did he know the "history lessons" he would be living out during the next several years. He had enlisted in the Marine Corps in December 1942 and served his country in Iwo Jima, where he personally witnessed the iconic raising of the American flag at Iwo Jima. He then participated in the occupation of Japan during the time when the atomic bombs were dropped. After his return to the states, Bill rejoined his bride and began a career in the sales of plumbing and heating supplies. He was a district sales manager for Ohio Brass, Westinghouse, and Rheem, throughout various parts of the country. Before retiring, Bill started his own plumbing supply company, the Bill Pelz Sales Agency in Albuquerque. During his leisure time, Bill followed his boyhood passion of golfing. He also taught Sally how to play. He had a patient demeanor that was perfect for also teaching the wives of his friends how to golf. The result was a great group of couples with whom he and Sally spend many memorable hours golfing. Bill loved to dance, too. In fact, that is how he and Sally first met. When he wasn't golfing or dancing, Bill enjoyed playing bridge. He is survived by his beloved wife, of 65 plus years, Sally; his daughters, Penelope Moore of Seattle and Patricia Van DerMey and husband Jeffrey of Bernalillo, NM; granddaughters, Kristin Collins and Shay Van DerMey; three sisters and one brother. Private Graveside Services, with military honors, will be held Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. For those who wish to send condolences to the family, you may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124 (505) 892-9920
        Published on: Tue July 28, 2009