Billy E. “Butch” Sitts Sr., 86, of Warsaw, and formerly of Akron, passed surrounded by family on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 at his residence.
Billy’s life was one marked by love, service, and dedication. He was born on August 3, 1939, in Wabash, Indiana, the son of the late Willard and Candice (Baker) Sitts. He was a graduate of Akron High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1956 to 1959, where he was part of the reconnaissance division. After his military service, Billy dedicated 31 years to driving semi-trucks for Essex Wire in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he earned a remarkable million-mile safety record. He also served as the union steward, advocating for his fellow drivers. He was a part of a group of Veterans that were honored in 2022 on the 37th Northeast Indiana Honor Flight.
Billy was a loving family man, and his greatest joy came from being with his loved ones. He married Janie Willard on August 19, 1960, and the two shared 30 wonderful years together before her passing in 1991. He later married Ruthie Sitts on August 12, 1995, and shared nearly 30 years of happiness with her until her passing on June 23, 2024.
Billy had a deep love for the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed fishing the local lakes for panfish and walleye, often spending hours by the water. He also found joy in caring for his lawn and flowers, always ensuring his surroundings were as beautiful as his heart. But above all, Billy cherished the time spent with his family. Whether gathering around the dinner table, sharing stories, or laughing together, he had a special way of bringing his loved ones close. His family was his greatest source of pride, and he often traveled to Florida to visit, fish, and create memories.
He is survived by his children Peggy (Todd) Anglin of Akron, Billy E. Sitts, Jr. (Danielle) of Cromwell, David (Darlene) Moore of Ossian, Teresa (Kevin) Steffe of Warsaw, and Curt (Joni) Moore of Warsaw; 16 Grandchildren; and many Great Grandchildren and Great Great Grandchildren; and sister Betty Poppy of Delon, Florida.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, his wives Janie and Ruthie, and a daughter Cynthia S. VanKersen (2021), step son Doug Moore, sisters Mary Shoemaker and Violet Gagnon.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm, Friday, Sept. 19, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Pastor Frank Whitaker officiating.
The interment will take place following the service in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, Indiana with military honors being provided by the Fulton County Honor Guard in honor of his service.
Visitation hours will be from 1 pm to 3 pm, Friday, Sept. 19, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, Indiana.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to Stillwater Hospice or to the Beaver Dam Church, the memo to Wheels on Fire to assist the community members who are fighting cancer.
