William “Bill” Earl Schroth Obituary
March 6, 1933 to July 4, 2024
Near midnight on July 4 th, Bill Schroth passed away from complications due to urethral cancer; at home attended by his caregiver, Diana, and friend, Wendee, with support from St. Peter’s hospice. Bill was 91years old.
Bill Schroth was born in the City of Bakersfield, California on March 6, 1933 at 5:01pm. He was the 13th child, sixth son, of Emil Schroth and Hattie Stahl. He grew up on his family’s farm in Porterville, CA and worked in the Air Force as a mechanic in the 1950’s, stationed in Alaska. After his time in the Air Force, he came to Helena to visit his friend, Red. He would meet his future wife, Betty Lou Halvorson, and stay in Helena up on Grizzly Gulch for the rest of his time.
Bill’s early life was spent on his family’s farm in Porterville, California. His father gardened and raised chickens, hay and watermelons on the family’s farm. Bill told stories of his years spent on the farm and his relationship to his mom, dad, and brothers and sisters. Many of Bill’s stories reflected a country that produced its greatest generation.
Bill lived in such a way that created and fostered community. He was always quick to give folks a hand with anything they needed and didn’t expect anything concrete in return. He plowed the snow from Grizzly Gulch in the winter for his neighbors and grated the road in the summer. He delighted in restoring classic cars. Every year, he would participate in the Car Show at the Broadwater and grill hamburgers for everyone.
Always quick with a joke and offering a snack, Bill welcomed friends at his house year-round. He loved to garden, read Louis L’Amour novels, and work on cars in his workshop. Even more than tinkering up at the garage, Bill loved visiting friends in Helena, going to auctions, and going to Costco to eat free samples and a hot dog.
Bill was preceded in death by; his wife, Betty, his daughter, Penny, his five brothers- Donald, Robert, James, Paul, and Karl, and his seven sisters- Ruth, Paulina, Edna, Beatrice, Katherine, Rosa, and Lina. Bill is survived by his grandchild and son-in-law.
The time and place of Bill’s memorial have not yet been finalized.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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