William Hensell
03/22/1953 - 01/31/2026
William Hensell, 72, of Otisco, Indiana, passed away on January 31, 2026, after a prolonged illness.
Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1953, he was the son of Arthur and Ann Hensell. Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy beginning in 1974, spending his service aboard the U.S.S. Lexington, and receiving the National Defense Service Medal.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Andy and Stephen; and his sister, MaryAnn. He is survived by his partner, Valerie Way, and her family—Shawn, Emily, Kayla, and Haven Lowe—who loved him deeply.
Known for his sharp wit and easy humor, Bill brought laughter to those around him. He was an accomplished pool player who rarely passed up the chance for a good game. In his later years, he found great joy in time spent with family and in raising, training, and showing retrievers alongside Valerie.
Honoring his wishes, no funeral services will be held. He will be interred in Augusta, Michigan, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Woody Williams Foundation at woodywilliams.org would be greatly appreciated.
Cremation was chosen, and Magnolia Cremations of Jeffersonville, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Condolences (3)
Ginny Welburn
I believe I was just 8 years old when you came into our life. What a blessing you were as an addition to our family. For me, you’ve always been Uncle Bill. Lack of Bloodline connection meant nothing in terms to you. You have always been Family and it saddens me to the core that I didnt return your last text message. As I remembered that I needed to message back, you had already passed on. I hope you know just how much I loved you. Im sure you did. I will miss our conversation and your silly jokes. I hope you are with God and in peace. That has always been my wish for you. Love you always! Ginny B u g
Mendairra Carter
I met Bill through my parents when I was a young teenager. He brought so much laughter and joy to my life and he never missed calling me every Christmas and every birthday. He would even call me randomly to tell me a new joke he was so excited about. I still have a voicemail from him that I saved. He was very loved and will be missed. I love you Bill.
Dee Lincomfelt Roekle
Friends since 8th grade, we met in math class. He was great at math, me not so much , that class started our 58 year friendship. My husband also became his friend and also my daughters many years later. I will always love and remember our fun times together , and will miss you .