William H. Kautz

Nov. 30, 1939 – June 26, 2012

TORRINGTON – William Harold Kautz, 72, of Torrington, died June 26 at Regional West Hospital in Scottsbluff, Neb.

William was born Nov. 30, 1939, in Mitchell, Neb., the son of Victor and Wilma (Harriger) Kautz.

He grew up in Mitchell and after graduation went into the U.S. Marines. After serving for four years, he returned to Nebraska. He then met Judith Michael and the couple was married on Dec. 9, 1962.

They moved to Midwest, where William worked in the oil fields for four years. He then took a position at the new sugar factory in Goodland, Kan., where he worked for 20 years. After that he transferred to the sugar factory in Torrington, were he worked for another 20 years and then retired in 2003.

William loved to travel, hunt and fish. He was an avid woodworker. He loved to barbecue and cook for the sugar factory pig roasts. He also enjoyed gardening and bowling. He collected hats, belts and buckles. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.

He was a deacon, as well as a member, at the First Congregational Church and also a member of the Elks and the Moose.

Survivors include his wife, Judith Kautz, of Torrington; two daughters, Renee Schott, of Derby, Kan., and Rhonda Kautz, of Chadron, Neb.; three sisters, Patricia Shiery, of Lakewood, Colo., Kay Henderson, of Coffeyville, Kan., and Victoria Rietz, of Peshtigo, Wis.; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Marlin and Stephen.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 30 at the First Congregational Church with Pastor Matt Gordon officiating. Burial will follow in the Valley View Cemetery in Torrington.

Memorials may be made to The Friendly Society at the church.

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and prior to the service at the church.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Colyer Funeral Home, and friends may send condolences to the family at www.colyerfuneralhome.com.



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