William E. Middleton

William E. Middleton, 85, of New Holland, passed away on April 20, 2025 at home from cancer.

Born on May 27, 1939 in Etowah, Tennessee, he was the son of the late William W. and Margaret (McConkey) Middleton of Etowah.

A graduate of Mount Berry High School in Rome, GA, and Millersville University, Bill worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C. for many years as a fingerprint examiner and computer programmer, which is where he met his future wife, Carolyn Burkett. He served in the District of Columbia Army National Guard from 1963 until 1969, obtaining the rank of sergeant. In 1969 he began work at the former Sperry New Holland where he held several positions from computer programmer to systems project manager until retiring in 1995. Following retirement from New Holland, he also worked for Computer Aid, Inc. and Martin Limestone from which he also retired in 2001.

He was a member of American Legion Post 662 of New Holland, Donegal Trout Unlimited, and the New Holland United Methodist Church, where he served as treasurer, auditor, and as a trustee. He had volunteered at many organizations including Lancaster General Hospital. Bill enjoyed trout fishing, fly tying, target shooting, and going to Hawk Mountain. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sporting events.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Carolyn (Burkett) Middleton, a son, Michael A. Middleton, husband of Lynn A. Middleton, of Lancaster, a daughter, Michelle R. Gehr, wife of Glenn E. Gehr of East Earl; a brother, Robert G. of Oak Ridge, TN, and his half-brother, Hugh W. of McCaysville, GA; three grandchildren, Kyla Eby, wife of Carter Eby, Gunner Gehr, husband of Marjory (Martin) Gehr, and Garrett Gehr; and three great grandchildren, Alaya, Teo, and Kora. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, June Mendenhall of Etowah, TN.

The family would like to welcome friends and family for a celebration of life gathering at the New Holland American Legion, 35 S. Hoover Ave, New Holland, on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 1-4 pm. Food and drink will be provided. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorial contributions in Bill’s name to be given to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster PA 17601 or to the American Legion Post 662 of New Holland.

Groff High Funeral Home in New Holland is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.