William I Pinkerton was born February 15, 1928, at home in Columbus, Ohio. He was the youngest surviving child of Harry L Pinkerton and Alice Faye (Rodgers) Pinkerton. He thoroughly enjoyed his childhood and was much beloved. His brilliant smile and warm, generous heart won him many friends in his lifetime. At age 17 he enlisted in the US Armed Forces and served for two years in occupied Japan after WWII. He was a member of the Neocacia Masonic Lodge #595 where his father and brothers were also members, and at one point served as its Grand Master. In 1988 he and his wife Irma moved to the Centerburg area and lived there for 30 years. He belonged to the Centerburg United Methodist Church, where he and Irma taught adult Sunday School and he served as usher.
He retired after 44 years from the Anderson Concrete company in Columbus as a supervisor, leaving many friends behind. After retirement, he and Irma volunteered to carry hot meals to Centerburg area seniors before the days of the Centerburg Senior Services and the Senior Services Levy were passed. He volunteered with Centerburg Interchurch and offered a helping hand where needed. He enjoyed travel and was very social, loved people, and was loved in return.
Bill carried the convictions of the lodge and church through his adult life and was respectful, principled, and caring toward the people in his path and in his life. He had a wonderful sense of humor and very much enjoyed sharing a good laugh.
Bill passed away on November 5, 2018, at the age of 90. He is deeply missed by his family. His was a life well lived, a shining example to follow, and a legacy that still ripples through his community and family. We celebrate his life on the 5th anniversary of his passing. We will never forget.
