William D. “Bill” Mentch Jr.

William D. “Bill” Mentch Jr., 81, Altoona, passed away Thursday at his home. He was born in Altoona, son of the late William D. and Mary (Villani) Mentch Sr. He later married Marian Gates.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marian; 4 children: Maria (Shawn) Smith, Francis “Woody” Buckreis, Kathleen Buckreis, and Jason (April) Mentch; 8 grandchildren: Donald, Alexandria, Brian, Kaylee, Emilio, Marisa, Aaron and Jena; and a sister, Darlene Gottshall. 

Bill was a 1963 graduate of Altoona High School. He served 4 years in the United States Air Force, spending most of his time in England. 

He worked for Claster’s Hardware store and later retired from DeGol’s as a salesman. 

Bill enjoyed many outdoor activities like hunting, fishing and shooting. He was a member of the Riggles Gap Sportsman’s Club.

He was a member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church. 

Friends will be received from 2-6pm Wednesday October 22, 2025 at the Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30am on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Boys Town or to the Disabled American Veterans www.dav.org

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