William Eugene Rightnour Jr.

William proudly served his country for more than 20 years in the United States Army, retiring at the rank of First Sergeant (1SG). During his military career, he served worldwide with assignments throughout Europe and Asia, and completed two combat tours in Vietnam.

His military decorations and awards included a Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

Following his distinguished Army career, William continued to serve the warfighter by working for several defense contractors. He took great pride in helping design, test and improve equipment that would better protect the next generation of American combat soldiers — most notably contributing to the development and improvement of the HMMWV (Humvee), M1 Abrams main battle tank and Bradley Fighting Vehicle.

William was a master mechanic and an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara; and his daughter, Marcia.

Surviving are his sons, Steven (wife, Jenny) and Daniel Rightnour; grandchildren, Andrew and Raelene; great-grandchildren, Kayden and Fawkes; siblings: Donna, Kenneth George, Winford “Skip” and Charles; and his dear companion of more than 20 years, Jane Allinder.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial service.

Arrangements are by Sorge Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., Hollidaysburg.

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made in Williams name to a veterans organization of your choice, including, but not limited to: Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Gary Sinise Foundation, or any other reputable organization that directly supports military veterans and their families.

William lived a life of service-first to his country, then to the soldiers who came after him. His quiet strength, dedication and love for his family will be deeply missed.

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