William Jan Ulrich

William Jan Ulrich, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024, surrounded by his family and close friends. He was 73 years old.

Bill was born on January 23, 1951, to loving parents, Clarence Risser and Elizabeth Witwer Ulrich, whose memory he cherished throughout his life. He grew up in a nurturing household alongside his sister, Doris Minnich, who remained a constant source of support and camaraderie.

After graduating from Ephrata high school, Bill attended college at Miami Dade College in Miami, Florida. Following school, Bill took a job at a radio station in Lynchburg, VA. He eventually moved home to Ephrata and worked at Blue Ridge Cable. A jack of many trades, Bill soon became a Radio DJ known as “Bill Kid” for WIOV.

In 1987, Bill married the love of his life, Alice Kay, with whom he shared 37 joyful years. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Alice Kay was Bill’s devoted partner until the end, providing unwavering support and companionship. In 1989, Alice and Bill opened The Udder Choice in a small strip mall in Ephrata, PA. 15 years later, Bill and Alice purchased land and built what is The Udder Choice today. The pair would spend many years together at The Udder serving their loyal customers and raising their two boys, Heath and Tyler.

Bill was a dedicated father who took great pride in his children. He leaves behind his two sons, Heath William Ulrich and Tyler Clarence Ulrich, both of whom he guided with wisdom and encouragement. Additionally, from a previous marriage, he is survived by his daughter, Theresa Ulrich and 3 grandchildren; Logan, Blake and Kelsey Smith.

Bill’s life was marked by his love for his family and watching his boys’ sports leagues. He was involved in local softball leagues and never missed an episode of Jeopardy. Bill was a 26 year member of Ephrata Lodge No. 665 Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, and had been a member of the Valley of Lancaster and Reading Consistory of the Scottish Rite, as well as Rajah Shrine. Bill was a die hard Miami Dolphins fan upon the team’s founding in 1966, and loved watching professional sports.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at the family’s farm on Sunday, July 21st from 2pm - 6pm. Friends and family are invited to drop in any time between 2pm and 6pm to share their memories of a remarkable man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please show someone an unexpected act of kindness to brighten their day like Bill did ours. If we all did this, the world would be a better place.