Mass of Christian Burial for William “Bill” Deutz, 81, of Marshall, will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Horvath Remembrance Center in Marshall, with a parish prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment with military honors will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Marshall. The Horvath Funeral Service in Marshall is handling the arrangements.
William “Bill” Albert Deutz was born on February 28, 1943, and passed peacefully on February 5, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Bill was the ninth of thirteen children born to Frank and Augusta (Sarazyn) Deutz. He held various jobs before ultimately becoming a farmer. His first job was at Jahr’s Nursery. He also worked on the Diversion Channel project and helped build the Marshall water tower. Known for his ability to fix almost anything, Bill was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He painted several tractors for himself and friends. After graduating high school, Bill enlisted in the Army and served from 1964 -1966, spending time in Vietnam during his service. Following his honorable discharge, he became the first Vietnam veteran to join the American Legion in Marshall. Bill also joined the VFW and the Knights of Columbus, remaining a lifelong member of both organizations. Following his military service, Bill began farming, proudly continuing the family tradition. On July 18, 1970, Bill married Rebecca “Becky” Stassen, and they enjoyed nearly 55 years of marriage. Together, they were blessed with two children and five grandchildren. Bill cherished family vacations, always finding ways to tease, joke around, and make everyone laugh, creating lasting memories with his loved ones. Bill was a board member for Harvest States now CHS and served on the Lake Marshall township board. Bill’s faith was very important to him, and he was a lifelong member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. He went to Central Catholic High School, graduating in 1961, and later served on the Parish Council Board. Bill had a deep love for farming and often said, “Just trying to feed the people.” He made sure to plant enough sweetcorn to share with all of Lyon County, eagerly giving it to family and friends. Bill enjoyed chatting with people and was always on the go. During the winter months, his favorite pastime was playing cards with his friends. After all, he was a farmer which made him a “gambling man,” as he often joked. In truth he was an optimist no matter the weather. Bill was, in the truest sense, a patriarch. He led his family with strength and love, always being a rock that others could depend on. A gifted storyteller, he captivated those around him with his vivid tales, and his jokes were always delivered with perfect timing. He was a prankster at heart. To know Bill was to be teased by him—his playful spirit never failed to bring a smile. He had a keen eye for classic cars, always able to identify the make and model with ease. He was a classic himself, and nothing short of legendary. Bill loved his brothers, sisters, and all his nieces and nephews dearly. His love for his wife, son, daughter, and grandchildren was immeasurable. His heart was kind, and he always saw the good in people. Bill will always be remembered for living life to its fullest, and his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Bill will remain forever in the memory and hearts of all who knew him.
Bill is survived by his wife Becky (Stassen) Deutz; son Craig Deutz of Marshall (Fiancé Lynn Zurn), grandchildren Logan and Isabelle; daughter Shari Troje (Andy), grandchildren Kalvin and Macy; siblings Laura (and Dick) Duthoy of Maryland, Dan (and Katie) Deutz of Lake Benton; in-laws Marlys Deutz, Armella Deutz, Rosie Deutz, and Curt Porter. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Sophia Deutz, parents, siblings Ramona Driggs, John Deutz, Audrey Blair, Ted Deutz, Jim Deutz, Pat Deutz, Peggy Porter, Gary Deutz, Deanna Poor and Paul Deutz.
The family thanks Avera Morningside Heights employees and special caregivers for the care provided to Bill in his final days. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Holy Redeemer Catholic Church and School.
