WILLIAM “BILL” SCHWERTFEGER, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Valley Hospice Care Center North in Steubenville, OH. Bill was born on February 13, 1924, in Follansbee, WV, a son of the late Jack and Blanche (Kellar) Schwertfeger. In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his older brother, Lloyd “Turf” Schwertfeger and his beloved wife, Mary Louise (Barrows) Schwertfeger. Bill’s life was marked by bravery and service to his country. Bill enlisted in the United States Army on March 17, 1943, at the age of 18, just three months shy of graduating from Follansbee High School. He embarked on a journey that led him through the harrowing battles of World War II. His courage shone brightly during the Battle of Monte Cassino, at the Anzio Beachhead, and in the Liberation of Rome. In an act of unparalleled valor, Bill risked his own life crawling 100 yards under heavy artillery fire to save a fellow soldier during combat, embodying the selflessness and heroism that defined his character. Bill was honorably discharged on November 7, 1945, with the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded the Bronze Star, American Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal, WWII Honorable Service Lapel Button, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Upon returning to his hometown from the war, Bill dedicated himself to education, earning both a bachelor’s degree from West Liberty State College and a master’s degree from West Virginia University. He pursued a distinguished 32-year tenure in education, leaving a lasting impact on both sides of the river where he taught as a teacher at Colliers and Hooverson Heights Primary before becoming a principal at Stark and Wintersville Elementary, and later, an instructional supervisor for the Edison Local School District. Bill’s interests were varied and rich, from playing football and swimming in his youth with his older brother “Turf” to fulfilling his dream of becoming a licensed pilot. He was an active member of the community, serving on the Follansbee City Council for 6 years and was a past commander of the Follansbee American Legion Post 45, past president of the Cedar Lodge and Sugar Run Lodge, and a member of the Wellsburg Masonic Lodge #2 A.F. & A.M. He received accolades such as the Brooke County Veterans Memorial Park Foundations Veteran of the Year and the Follansbee Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year recognitions. He is survived by his sons, John (Nancy) Schwertfeger and Mark (Dee Ann) Schwertfeger; grandchildren, Justin (Becca), Jake (Kaylie), and Jesse (Nick); and one great-granddaughter, Harper Louise DiBattista. Bill will be remembered for his unwavering courage, dedication to education, and profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Visitation was held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 until the time of funeral services at the Mullenbach Funeral Home, Follansbee, with Rev. Frank Haas officiating. Full military honors were conducted by the Ohio Valley Veterans Memorial Squad and the Army Honor Guard. Inurnment was held privately in St. John Haven of Rest Cemetery, Colliers. The family wishes to thank Valley Hospice, Weirton Medical Center, and Dr. Saieed and his staff for all their care and support. Condolences may be sent to www.mullenbachfh.com.