William S Ehrlich

William Steven Ehrlich, age 96, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025, at the Missouri Veterans Home.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Waters Funeral Home in Vandalia, Missouri, with Bro. Kenny Haddock officiating. Burial will follow at Farber Cemetery.

Visitation celebrating William’s life will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

William was born on December 17, 1929, to William and Leona Ehrlich. He attended school in Farber, Missouri, and was a graduate of the University of Missouri.

On March 20, 1955, he married Patricia Sue Brown. She preceded him in death on June 9, 1988.

William is survived by his five children: Steve (Cindy) Ehrlich, Carl (Dora) Ehrlich, Sam Ehrlich, Ben Ehrlich, and Susan (Mark) Houchins; several grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by one sister, Lois Phillips. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Donald B. Ehrlich.

William proudly served his country during the Korean War.

He was very active in the Presbyterian Church in Vandalia, Missouri, serving at every level of the church. His roles included Commissioner to Presbytery, Sunday School Superintendent, and service on numerous church and Presbytery committees. He was involved in the Heifer Project, the Festival of Sharing, and relief efforts assisting Alexandria following flooding.

William was a farmer for many years and greatly enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved watching children play sports and working in his garden.

Pallbearers will be his grandchildren: Bryan Ehrlich, Mark Ehrlich, Matt Ehrlich, Steven Houchins, Bill Ehrlich, Bobby Ehrlich, Jennifer Wiles, and Kim Manning.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Veterans Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and a video tribute viewed on William’s memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com.