William L. "Bill" Gieseler, 73, died on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016, at 3:32 p.m.

He was born on March 2, 1943 in Dayton, Ohio, to Harold L. and Dolores Kathryn (McGlumphy) Gieseler who preceded him in death. On Nov. 16, 1968, Bill married Paula K. Scott and she survives in Alger.

Bill retired from Proctor and Gamble of Lima where he had worked as a technician. He attended the Union Chapel Missionary Church, Lima. Bill was a U.S. Air Force veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He started a missionary program in Okinawa while in the service that still carries on today. Bill read the Bible in five languages and could speak in three languages.

He is also survived by four sons and a daughter: Chad Gieseler of Alger, Jason (Elizabeth) Gieseler of Fenton, Mich., Robin (Amanda) Gieseler of Delaware, Justin Gieseler of Middleburg and Heidimarie (Joseph) Hunsaker of Bluffton; 17 grandchildren; and a brother, Charles Gieseler of Dayton.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Carol Jane Gieseler.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, at Union Chapel Missionary Church, 4869 Ada Road, Lima, with Pastor Mark Bayliff officiating. Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger with graveside military services conducted by the Ada VFW Post #9381 Honor Guard.

Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18, at Union Chapel Missionary Church, 4869 Ada Road, Lima, and one hour prior to the service on Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to WTGN Radio Station at 1600 Elida Road, Lima, Ohio 45805.