William "Bill" Jack Wichmann's Obituary
William ‘Bill’ Jack Wichmann, 86, formerly of Ocean View, DE, Park Ridge, NJ and Cincinnati, OH passed away on May 27, 2025 in the comfort of his home at Oxford Glenn in Owasso, OK. Born on July 21, 1938, in Cincinnati, Bill was the beloved son of the late Elmer and Ruth Wichmann and brother to the late Barbara Susan, with whom he shares a birthday, albeit two years apart.
Bill, was a distinguished retired Executive Vice President of Noville for 32 years, a fragrance and flavor company. Bill began his professional journey at Procter and Gamble, where he started on the Ivory Soap assembly line and ultimately ascended to the position of Perfumer. In 1975, he relocated his family from Cincinnati to New Jersey, seeking greater opportunities with Noville and for his family.
An important part of Bill’s life was his service in the Air Force from 1956-1959, a commitment he took on immediately after graduating High School. In his leisure time, Bill was deeply committed to giving back to his community. Following his retirement, he devoted over 40 hours each week to the Ocean View Police Department, spending a majority of his time in the radio room, answering calls and contributing to the safety of the township. Bill was well-acquainted with law enforcement, having served as Police Commissioner in Park Ridge, NJ, as well as holding the role of councilman for several years. His enduring impact on the community will be remembered fondly.
Bill was a dedicated father, often seen on the sidelines enthusiastically cheering for his children, whether they were playing football, basketball, baseball, or softball. He spent countless hours with his sons ‘rebuilding’ cars or teaching them the ‘trick of the trade’. In later years, Bill remained a steadfast presence in the stands, proudly cheering on his grandchildren and reveling in the role of their biggest fan. Bill had the proud honor and great privilege of ‘tapping out’ his grandson, Hayden, after graduating basic training from the Air Force. Bill is predeceased by his loving wife, Betty, of 53 years, and survived by his children: Karen Scarangella, and husband Thomas, of Milford, DE; William ‘Chuck’ Wichmann, and wife Micki, of Owasso, OK; James Wichmann and his wife Michele, of Washington TWP, NJ; Jeffery Wichmann, and his wife Paula of Millersville, MD; and Mary Jo Parada of Morrisville, PA. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Jerry Kline. Bill leaves a legacy of 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Watson Funeral Home and Crematorium, 211 S. Washington Street Millsboro, DE 19966, at 11:30AM with a viewing from 10-11:30AM prior to the start of the service. Interment will be held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, DE, immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 16 PO Box 966 Bethany Beach, DE 19930 where Bill was an Associate Member.
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