William Altorfer Sr.

MAJ William Graves "Bill" Altorfer Sr. (USA ret.) departed this life on Saturday, October 29, 2011 at McGuire Veteran's Medical Center. He was surrounded by the love and attention of all of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd W. and Frances G. Altorfer and his sister, Frances A. Altorfer. Bill was born in East Orange, New Jersey on January 19, 1939. He graduated from Norwich University as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. He served his country valiantly for 23 years in many locations where he made lasting memories and lifelong friends. His service included two tours in Vietnam and he was the recipient of the Bronze Star. Bill came to Virginia as a proud serviceman and was an active member of the Colonial Heights and Chesterfield communities for over 25 years. He found joy in spending time with family and friends, serving his country and serving his Lord as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and working on genealogy. He was an avid collector of interesting items and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren about these things. The family wishes to express gratitude and appreciation to the nurses, doctors and other staff involved in his care throughout his hospitalizations and illnesses. He is survived by his eternal companion and wife of 48 years, Sandra Ivey Altorfer; five children, Terri (Daniel Morrow), William, Jr. (Stella), Elizabeth Bello, Catherine Altorfer, and Deborah (Martin Alder); 17 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 2, 2011 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Colonial Heights Ward, 501 Compton Drive, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Interment will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. prior to the service at church. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517 in memory of William G. Altorfer. Online donations can also be made by visiting woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements by the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard.