William H Dierks

William H. Dierks died peacefully at his home at 12:55 p.m. on September 25, 2026, at the age of 86, with his wife of 44 years lying by his side. Known through the years as Billy, Bill D, Bill, Jolly Green Giant, Dad, Husband, Grandaddy, and most tenderly “Sweet William” to the woman who loved him, he leaves behind a life remembered with affection, laughter, and deep gratitude.

Born on June 5, 1940, Bill grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and in other parts of Long Island. He graduated from George Washington University and, soon after graduation, attended Officer Training School in Newport, Rhode Island. He went on to serve in the Navy and was stationed in Vietnam aboard the USS Annapolis (AGMR-1) as a lieutenant junior grade. In his professional life, he worked as a Sales Manager with Universal Hospital Services, building a career marked by dedication and the easy rapport of a man who was well liked.

Bill’s days were filled with the pleasures that suited him best. He loved golfing, time at the beach, watching sports, and following his beloved Green Bay Packers. Cards were a steady joy throughout his life, and during his healthy years he played seven card games every week, including euchre, cribbage, and pinochle, along with poker. He was known for his sharp play, his love of a good joke, and his wide knowledge of sports. A cigar aficionado, Bill had his own daily rhythm: mornings often began outside with 2 cigars and greetings for those passing by, especially Gary from down the street and Dave, a Michigan snowbird, with whom he happily discussed the current sport of the season and, just as often, politics. Before dinner, he would return outside for his last 2 cigars at the close of the day. He was also a member of Lions Club International in Delaware.

At the center of Bill’s life was his marriage to Kristie Dierks, his devoted wife of 44 years. Their love story began on July 2, 1981, and they were married exactly one year later, on July 2, 1982. Their years together were a lasting testament to companionship, loyalty, and abiding love.

He is also survived by his children, Greg (Paddy), Gary (Sheri), Sonja (Darian), and Bill; and by his cherished grandchildren, Sonny, Jordan, Conrad, and Holden. In the family he loved so dearly, Bill’s presence will continue to be felt in shared stories, in laughter around the table, and in the simple, familiar moments that mattered most to him. "I remember being on long drives with my Dad and brothers. The smell of cigar smoke, documenting all the different license plates we spotted and lots of stories about the Navy, Long Island and the fraternity house at George Washington University.

"Dad taught me what it means to be human in the face of life’s challenges and adversity. Using humor, both good and groaningly bad, to make himself and others laugh. Lifing spirits and distracting himself and everyone elso, in these moments, from their burdens, cares and concerns. I you were laughing, he was smiling, and it was a good day."

"Dad you were the best you see. Especially for a girl like me. What I would give to hear another styory. Of your exciting life and it’s glory. Encircled in cigar smoke. Always quick with a joke. You were the best at catching a wave. Our family Uno games were my fave. Many trips and lots of games. Things will never be the same. Countless memories, too many to list. You are so very much missed. My rhyming skills I got from you. Usually I can write a funny poem too. Although it’s hard to be funny right now. Life will continue somehow. I miss you more every day. Only one more thing to say. Dad you were, simply the best. To have you, I was very blessed."

"As a kid I always looked forward to visiting Dad. I think I joined the Navy because of his storied and I appreciate veterans today because of the historic places we visited like Gettysburg, Independence Hall and where Washington crossed the Delaware. I also always seen to find my sense of humor again when I think of him. The best way to cheer myself up is to cheer someone else up and I feel I learned that from Dad."

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Bertha, and by his brother, John Walter. Their memory remained part of his life, and now he rests with those who went before him.

Bill was cremated, and in a tribute that reflects his unmistakable personality, his ashes are being kept in cigar boxes. There will be no service. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather; a man of humor, habit, loyalty, and warmth; and someone whose steady presence made everyday life brighter for those around him.

Bill asked that any donations be sent to THE NEWARK SENIOR CENTER, 200 Whitechapel, Newark, DE 19713