William "Bill” Albert Schott of Elkhart, passed away soon after his 90th birthday on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at his home.

Bill was born on February 25, 1936 in Decatur, MI to the late, Alva and Lavina (Osborne) Schott. Bill married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Roe) Schott on February 27, 1960 in Bristol, IN. She passed away on October 5, 2005 after 45 years of marriage.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Alva and Lavina; siblings, Chuck, Daniel, Stanley, Kenneth, Verna, Dorothy, Hazel, Hilda, Flossie, Marilyn and Pat.

Bill is survived by his children, Mary Jo (Randy) BeMiller, Rick (Denise) Schott and Bob (Lynette) French; grandchildren, Brandy (Cory) Handley and Cassandra (Anthony) Woods; great grandchildren, Seaira BeMiller, Morgan Naftzger, Ryver Woods and Donavon Johnson; sisters, Donna Germann of Elkhart and Lucy Miller of Kentucky; and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was a skilled keys polisher at Routson Brass Foundry and later worked as a welder at Flexco. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail.

In his free time, Bill enjoyed working on cars in his garage and could often be found outdoors tending to his garden. A country boy at heart, he had a deep appreciation for old western shows and movies and was an avid listener of country western music. He also never missed an episode of The Golden Girls, which brought him many laughs over the years.

Bill was soft-spoken and steady in nature, never one to let life’s troubles weigh him down. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Above all, Bill cherished his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and they adored him dearly.

There will be no services at this time. Per the family’s request, Bill will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 1178 Fremont Ct., Elkhart, IN 46516.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

The family would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice especially, Joy, Jessica, Kelcie and Jannelle and the staff at Billings Funeral Home for their loving support during a difficult time.

For those that wish to send a condolence, share a memory or order flowers may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.