Bill Riddle, 75 (Obituary Brought to You by Heintzelman Funeral Home)

Bill “Grumpy” Riddle (1949 – 2025)

How do you write something perfect for a man that was the perfect father-in-law, neighbor, business partner and my BEST friend? He gave me so much and I can’t find the words to express that easily. A devoted patriarch who gave his all to his family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of memories from hunting and fishing to his love of hot rods and trucks. From his Coors adventures to car shows, he was a man who rarely took a day off from work. You see, all his life, he provided for his growing family. He wasn’t an outgoing person, but his family grew every week once you met him.

He and his wife, Elsie, raised two beautiful daughters who gave him six grandchildren and nine-and-a-half great-grandchildren. He spoiled each generation more and more, which is what one does when you start life with literally nothing.

Bill fought life’s battles (and there were many) by doing what his dad did…by adapting. His dad moved around the country in a time when you went where the work was to provide for your family, as did Bill. Bill took the hardest job in a specific construction field, made it his life’s work and became the best in the business.

He settled in Riegelsville to raise his family. Always a hard worker, he earned enough to buy his dream home in Hellertown on a large plot including a pond, gun range and outbuildings. He made that home his compound and hosted some very memorable “epic” celebrations, including the best wedding ever, mine. Jody and I are grateful to Bill for his gift of land where we built our home next to his, worked daily and raised our family. I have been fortunate to share nearly 25 of my 30 years with my best friend and neighbor.

I could go on and on with stories of how much this man did for me. In his passing he leaves many memories, not only with me, but with his beloved brothers, sisters, in-laws, kids, grandkids, great-grandkids and countless others. His selflessness and giving nature are trademarks that we should all strive to emulate.

As we remember Bill today, I ask that you grab a beer and toast that man, that mystical honorable being, and think of him catching that one big fish with Freddie up in heaven. Here’s to great fishing tales and seeing you on the other side. Cheers to you, my friend!

With all my love,

Frank Kozero, son-in-law

Jody Kozero, daughter

Frankie Szakos, grandson

Kirston Novisher, granddaughter

Billy Kozero, grandson

Nine-and-one-half, great-grandchildren

Jeanny Botts, daughter

Lily Botts, granddaughter

Violet Botts, granddaughter

Ian Botts, grandson

Note: Bill Riddle died on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. Arrangements are by the Robert W. Snyder Funeral Home, Riegelsville, PA.