William Charles Byrus Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

William (Bill) Charles Byrus, 90, passed away on Saturday May 28, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Lake Worth, Florida on December 5, 1931 to Robert and Ida Byrus. Bill was the oldest son of four children. He loved growing up in the woods and waters of rural Florida and had many fond childhood memories shared with his siblings, parents, and extended family. This gentle giant loved the game of football and was a natural. He not only played in high school but earned a scholarship to Iowa State University where he played football while studying forestry. Bill was honored by being selected to Iowa State University’s all time all-star football team. After graduation from ISU, Bill was highly recruited by many professional football teams, and was soon thereafter drafted by the Chicago Bears. In 1953 he married the love of his life, Betty Dana and they began their lives as one. From 1954-1958, Bill served his country in the United States Army stationed in Panama. Bill’s family began there with Bill Jr., followed by Becky and Beth as years went by. After being honorably discharged from the US Army, Bill began his forestry career in Florida. Being in the woods and outdoors in nature was Bill’s happy place. His skill level served him well on many state forestry boards and land management organizations where he offered his knowledge and expertise. Bill worked hard, played hard, and loved what he did. In later years, his creativity emerged in the form of crafting handmade wooden dulcimers, stained glass projects, and carving cowboys, woodland creatures, and canes from his extensive wood collection. Bill loved his family and shared the products he made with all of them. Bill’s giving spirit was shared with his church, numerous scouting organizations and especially with his family. He was a teddy bear of a man and his famous jiggly hugs always brought squeals of delight from the smallest family members. He will be sorely missed. Bill is survived by his wife of 69 years, Betty Dana Byrus, his son William Dana Byrus (Diane) and his daughters Rebecca Ann Zoeller (Brad) and Elizabeth Sue Jones (Mike). His sister Mary Jeanne Wolf and his brothers Robert L. Byrus (Renate) and Peter C. Byrus . Grandchildren Melissa Von Hagen, Danielle Chili, Greg Byrus, Amanda Newman, Kyle Duley, Katelyn Liptak and Neveah Jones. Great grandchildren Konner, Kaden, Mckenzie, Tanner, Tayt , Tucker, Burson, Waylon, Tyler and Theo and great great grandson Stetson. A private Celebration of Life will be held for the family.

William Charles Byrus

December 5, 1931 - May 28, 2022