William “Bill” Frederick Ellifritz, Sr. of Newark, DE, age 84, passed away Sunday, March 27, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Akron, OH on May 9, 1937 to the late Ray and Margaret (Ford) Ellifritz.

Bill proudly served in the United States Navy from 1954-1958. During that time, he worked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Lake Champlain earning Good Conduct and National Defense Medals. After proudly serving his country, Bill went on to work for Coca-Cola for 37 years until his retirement. An avid sports fan, he would watch any competitive sport, but preferred to watch his favorite teams: the Phillies, Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns and Ohio State University football. Bill was also a season ticket holder for the University of Delaware teams. He loved to golf, bowl, and coached Little League and Babe Ruth baseball for 25 years. A devoted family man, the Ford Family Reunion was the highlight of his year, and he found his greatest joy in spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his wife of 41 years, Karen Vavala Ellifritz; six children: William F. Ellifritz, Jr., Dana M. Sweetman (Jesse P.), Wayne K. Ellifritz, Dawn M. Gallagher, Franklin L. Blunt, Jr. (Deborah Farley) and Laura E. J. Prucyk (Craig L.); fourteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and two sisters: Sharon Goldblatt and Diane Ellifritz.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his son, Warren K. Ellifritz; son-in-law, Edwin Gallagher; two sisters: Carol Boone and Doris Wright; and brother Ray “Butch” Ellifritz, Jr.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 12PM on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at R.T. Foard & Jones Funeral Home, 122 W. Main St., Newark, DE 19711. Family and friends may begin visiting at 11AM. Burial to follow at Gracelawn Memorial Park.