Billy E. VanGilder

Billy E. VanGilder, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023, at his home in Ashtabula with his daughters and wife by his side in Ashtabula, Ohio.

He was born on August 6, 1933, in Barrackville, West Virginia, the son of Fred C. and Freda VanGilder.

Billy had several jobs in his early years; he was employed at Sheffield M.F.G from 1959-1985 and then went on to work for Reserve Environmental Services from 1986 until his retirement in 1996. was a Teamster Truck Driver for forty years until his retirement.

On Jan. 28, 1958, Billy married the love of his life, Lona “Lonnie” VanGilder; they shared 65 years of wonderful marriage together,

Together with his wife, Lonnie; he enjoyed doing yardwork and tending to his vegetable and flower gardens. He also enjoyed family gatherings all year round and cooking for his family and other special events such as Boy Scout banquets and other activities.

Billy was a member of the Rising Sun Lodge #22 for forty years, the Ashtabula V.F.W and the El Kadar Grotto.

He is survived by his loving wife, “Lonnie”; his beloved children: Cathy (Tom) Capone, Brenda (Gary) Jerauld and Kelly (David) Kern; his grandchildren: Stephanie (Mike) Blenman, Kyle (Ashley) VanGilder, Staci Metzinger, Arin (Ryan) Franklin, Nicole Tabor, Kendrick Maple, Jillian (Janet) Kern, Alex (Mandy) Kern and twenty-five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his eight siblings; his son’s, Billy VanGilder, Jr. in 2013 and Kenneth VanGilder in 2012 and his grandson, Keegan Maple in 2018.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, from 6:00p-8:00p at Czup Funeral Home, 1329 Lake Avenue in Ashtabula; the Masonic Lodge will hold a memorial service Wednesday evening at 7:50p.m.  The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 3:00p at Czup Funeral Home; burial to immediately follow at Edgewood Cemetery in Ashtabula Township.

Memorial contributions can be made in his name to Hospice of the Western Reserve.