Ottumwa, Iowa - William Earl Linstrom, 94, of Ottumwa, passed from this world on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Vista Woods Care Center. He lived his life in service to his community, his profession, his faith, his friends and most importantly, his family.

He was born April 8, 1931 in LuVerne, IA to Earl H. and Ella Bowman Linstrom. He was the oldest of seven children and valued his relationships with each of his siblings and their families. He married Betty Jane Lathrop August 20, 1950 in Waterloo, IA.

A 1949 graduate of East Waterloo High School, Bill graduated from Iowa State Teacher's College in 1954 and earned his master's degree from the University of Iowa in 1966. He began his profession as a high school history and government teacher as well as wrestling coach at Marion High School from 1954-65. Bill also served on the Linn County Board of Supervisors for two and a half years. Bill dedicated 30 years to the Coop Extension at Iowa State University, retiring in 1998.

Bill served his community through a variety of activities including city councils in both Marion and Ottumwa as well as leading fund raising efforts for his church, First United Methodist Church, currently Grace Ottumwa. He also served on various boards including Pennsylvania Place, Regional Ventures and as a founding member of River Hills Community Health Center. In his retirement, Bill served as the interim director of River Hills Community Health Center to help establish this service in the Ottumwa Community. He was a 50 year member and Past President of Rotary Club of Ottumwa, and a 60 gallon blood donor with the local blood center. He was generous with his time and resources.

Bill was a man of many interests including Iowa State University athletics, creating stained glass, refurnishing furniture and spending time with his grandchildren. He and Betty enjoyed many trips together and he always looked forward to a walk on the Florida beach in the winter.

Surviving is his wife of 75 years, Betty; their three daughters, Brenda Ristvedt of Independence, IA, Karen (Dave) Vickers of Clinton and Kristine (Jerald) Pezley of Pella. He was exceedingly proud of his 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Carmen Mullenix and Laurie Rubino; a sister-in-law, Carolyn (Mark) Ackerman; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Steve Ristvedt; brothers, David Linstrom and Charles Linstrom; two sisters, Ella Colosimo and Mary Kemble who are welcoming him home with open arms. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of his family.

Visitation will be open after 11 a.m. Friday, September 5th at Reece Funeral Home with is family present to greet friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 6th at Reece Funeral Home with Rev. Chris Childs officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Private inurnment will be in Garden of Memories Cemetery in Waterloo at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Bill be honored by a donation of resources or time to a favorite charity.