ASHTABULA — Billy “Bill” Lawrence Garoutte, age 81, died unexpectedly at his home with his loving wife, Evelyn, at his side on Saturday, August 11, 2012.
Born in Yuba City, Calif., on Dec. 15, 1930, he was the son of the late Lonnie and Irene (Sawyer) Garoutte and had moved to Ohio as a child with his parents.
After graduation from Ashtabula High School, he began working in local industries and was employed by Molded Fiber Glass for forty-five years. Bill loved his job in “shipping and receiving” and made many lasting friendships.
On Nov. 3, 1994, he married Evelyn Urch and they celebrated seventeen years of marriage.
A talented and skilled craftsman, Bill would spend hours on making lamps in the shapes of different styles horses. He proudly gave them to family and friends. These lamps are treasured by those who were fortunate enough to receive them. In his younger years, Bill enjoyed fishing and camping with family and friends. He and his wife, Evelyn, went to garage sales looking for “treasures” and at times they found just that.
He was a member of the VFW Post #943, Moose Lodge #0547, Eagles and ANU, where he enjoyed swapping stories and catching up on the news of friends. He loved animals of all types and was especially fond of his dogs, “Buttons, Pedro and Shelby”.
Bill will be remembered for his strength and dignity, a wonderful sense of humor, and his love for his family.
Bill is survived by his wife, Evelyn Garoutte of Ashtabula; his children, Rose Dewey of Plymouth Township, Mary (Larry) Glaus of Ashtabula and Kathy Garoutte of Pennsylvania; step-children, Peggy Hoplight and Walter Perkins, both of Ashtabula, Eric Perkins of Lake City, Tenn., and Brenda (Charles) Carroll also of Ashtabula; his sister, Joan Sparks of Kelloggsville; his brother, Joe (Betty) Garoutte of Clearwater, Fla.; and many loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Anne Repasky Garoutte in 1976; his son, David Garoutte in 1961; step-son, Mark Perkins in 1987; and his parents.
A Graveside Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 17th, at St. Joseph Cemetery Chapel, inurnment to follow.
If desired, memorials in Bill’s name may be made to the APL, 5970 Green Road, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004.
DUCRO FUNERAL SERVICES AND CREMATORY, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula, is in charge of arrangements. Obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com and starbeacon.com.
