William J. Sipes

Sipes, William J., 86, of Richland Township, died February 16, 2013, at Memorial Medical Center. He was born on April 30, 1926, in Johnstown, son of Owen M. and Mary (Christensen) Sipes. Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty J. (Saleeba) Sipes; brother, Pete and a sister, Jane Gresh. He is survived by his loving children, Patricia, wife of Edward Wazontek, Westmont; William, Jupiter, FL; Kimberly, wife of John LaPorta, Springfield, VA. Grandchildren, Brooke (Christopher), Lauren (Erik), Sara, and Sean; Great-grandson, CJ. Bill is the brother of Robert, Roxbury. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Bill received a Purple Heart during WW II serving on the USS Biddle. He retired from Bethlehem Steel after 37 years of service. Bill was a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and a 50 year member of the Greater Johnstown Lodge #538, F&AM. He and his late wife, Betty were winter residents of Florida for over 21 years where he was involved in numerous community activities. Bill enjoyed crafting, carpentry, and country music. Friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Tuesday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. An additional viewing will be held at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church on Wednesday from 10 AM until time of service at 11 AM, Rev. Custeads and the Very Rev. Donald E. Shadid officiating. Entombment will be held at Grandview Cemetery Mausoleum with military rites conducted by Menoher Post #155 VFW Ritual Team. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com