FRANKLIN

William W. “Bill” Dollens, Jr., 84, peacefully went to rest with Jesus on October 5, 2023, at home, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Franklin, at home, on May 2, 1939, to the late William W. and Helen Irene (Taulman) Dollens (both deceased). He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carolyn (Cain) Dollens, and his siblings, George Dollens, of Columbus, Linda &Carol Dollens, of Franklin. He had three children: Angela (Chris) Turnmire, of Franklin, William W. “Bill” (Michelle) Dollens, of Indianapolis, and Jonathan Dollens (deceased). He is survived by three grandchildren, Jonathan “Dax” (Sarah), of Valparaiso, Claire and Martina Turnmire, of Franklin.

He graduated from Shields High School, Seymour, IN, class of 1958, where he was affectionately known as “Tub”. He played football and was part of the 1955 squad that earned the Southern Conference Championship and an undefeated season. He also held a shot put record and played basketball. He attended Purdue University. He worked at Arvin Industries in Greenwood and Franklin for 19 years. He subsequently worked at Mount Trucking for a year and retired from Sonoco Flexible Packaging in 2001.

He proudly and honorably served in the Army &National Guard where he was a mess sergeant and a tank commander.

Bill served as a Little League baseball coach and was a former Elks and Eagle member. He also formerly attended Whiteland Church of Christ. He loved cooking, camping &fishing, and watching the Indianapolis 500. He was a Colts fan and loved taking his sons to watch the Cincinnati Reds play.

Bill had a deep love for his family and was happiest when on vacation, especially in Long Boat Key, FL, exploring the southwest or exploring Civil War sites with his grandchildren. He loved his grandpups, Sparkle and Chocolate.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 12th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m at Jessen Funeral Home &Simple Cremation ~ Whiteland Chapel. The Celebration of Life will follow with Pastor Burt Brock officiating. The burial with military honors will be at Greenlawn Cemetery, Franklin.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gulf Coast Church of Christ, 9550 Ben C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33966.

Arrangements entrusted to Jessen Funeral Home &Simple Cremation ~ Whiteland Chapel. 729 N. US Highway 31, Whiteland, IN 46184. (317) 535-6880. www.jessenfuneralhome.com