Charles William (Bill) Somers, 91, of Alliance passed away Wednesday, August 24 at Aultman Compassionate Care Center. Bill was one of Knox Township's few remaining WWII veterans of The Greatest Generation. Bill will be reuniting with his beloved wife, Bonnie Ruth, of 66 years whom preceded him in death. Bill was born April 28, 1925 in North Georgetown, Ohio to parents Charles (Bud) and Bertha Somers.

He leaves behind, sons Charles Douglas (Joyce) of West Lafayette, Indiana, Ray Allan (Jean) of Charlton, New York. Grandchildren Eric (Tirzah) Somers, Brian (Julie) Somers, Amy Somers (Adam) Lawson, Rachel Somers (Peter) Bornn, Becky Somers (Eric) Abramson. Great grandchildren Ivy, Sam, Aidan, Andrew, Emily, Abbie, Fred, Sarah and Katie. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother John and sisters Anna Mae and Georgia.

During attendance at Alliance High School, Bill completed his machinist apprenticeship at the Alliance Machine Co. and was subsequently drafted into the Army. He trained at Camp Bowie, Texas where he earned a sharpshooter in the 248th Engineers Combat Battalion. The 248th was assigned to the Third Army under General Patton and earned 4 Bronze Battle Stars. Bill was recently awarded the Legion of Honor medal by the French Government in appreciation of the liberation of France. After being discharged 2-1/2 years later, Bill was employed as a machinist by Morgan Engineering where he worked until its closure. Having the second highest seniority, Bill helped load the last shipment and shutter the plant. Bill was a member of St Paul Lutheran Church in Minerva and Great Trails Model A Car Club. Bill and Bonnie enjoyed playing bridge with their friends.

After his early retirement, Bill excelled at woodworking and enjoyed many years alongside Bonnie making Shaker boxes, carriers and other traditional Shaker items and selling at Shaker Woods, Yankee Peddler, Bob Evans Farms and many other area craft shows. Bill also enjoyed restoring a collection of turn of the century "Hit and Miss" engines.

The family would like to thank the many neighbors, friends, members of the St Paul Lutheran Church, Pastor Joseph Ertl and especially the staff at Aultman Compassionate Care Center for their fine care and many acts of love and kindness.

Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday in St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Minerva with Pastor Joseph Ertl officiating. Burial with full military honors will be in North Georgetown Cemetery. Calling hours will be 2 hours prior to services at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bill may be made to Aultman Compassionate Care Center, 2821 Woodlawn Ave. NW, Canton, Ohio 44708-1423.