Captain William J. Bontell, USMC (Ret.)

Captain William J. Bontell, USMC (Ret.), beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and proud veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, passed away peacefully and entered eternal rest.

Born in Pittsfield, MA, Bill grew up in Lenox Dale, MA before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. His distinguished 21-year career took him to Parris Island, SC; Camp Lejeune, NC; Cherry Point Air Station, NC; Great Lakes, IL; San Diego, CA; Kaneohe Bay, HI; Oahu, HI; Worcester, MA; Okinawa, Japan; and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Capt. Bontell is a decorated combat veteran, serving with honor during the Korean War in Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir and later in Republic of Vietnam, earning multiple personal and campaign service medals. His leadership and courage exemplified the highest values and traditions of the Marine Corps: Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

After retiring from military service, Bill began a second career and spent 20 years in the banking industry with SunBank/SunTrust in Orlando, Florida, retiring as a Vice President. Later, he moved to Southern California to support his family and ultimately found peace in Whitestown, IN. Bill touched countless lives with his kindness, humor, and integrity.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Janice Bontell; his sons, LtCol Michael J. Bontell, USMC (Ret.), of Sarasota, FL, and Stephen J. Bontell, of Orlando, FL; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial followed by full military honors, including a Marine Corps Honor Guard and the playing of “Taps” will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, at St. Alphonsus Liguori Roman Catholic Church, 1870 West Oak Street, in Zionsville, Indiana. The family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Final rites will be administered at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 134 Main St, in Lenox, MA, followed by graveside burial.

“Semper Fidelis” – Always Faithful