William T. Conrad, 85, of Swayzee, passed away at 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Marion Health. He was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on January 20, 1941, to Martin and Vera (Wagoner) Conrad. On June 28, 1965, he married the love of his life, Mary (Humphrey) Conrad, who survives. This month would have marked their 61st wedding anniversary.
William dedicated 32 years to the Grant County Highway Department. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and unwavering dedication – qualities that shaped every part of his life.
William loved being outdoors, especially on his boat at Red Bridge on Mississinewa Lake. Fishing brought him peace, whether he was catching crappie or catfish or exploring lakes up north. Above all, his family was the center of his world. His grandchildren were the highlight of his later years; he never missed a birthday, always checked in, and cherished every photo and update. He knew each grandchild’s birthday by heart.
He and Mary shared a long, happy marriage and were truly each other’s rock. William will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steady presence, and the example he set through a lifetime of hard work and love.
William is survived by his children, William Conrad of Bluffton; Walter Conrad of Swayzee; and Bobbie Jo (Alan) Murphy of Marion. He is also survived by his sisters, Sharon McClain, Molly “Susan” Conrad, Cindy Smeltzer, Cathy Conrad, and Genie Gult of Rocheste, Linda Smith of Wisconsin; his grandchildren, Kayla Ahnert, Michael Bonifield, Robert (Karlena) Murphy, and Jim (Emilie) Murphy; and his great‑grandchildren, Gracie-Lynn Causy, Zachary Ahnert, Aria Salter, Ainsleigh, Jackson Foster, and Alaya Murphy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Connie Kleinknight, Marsha Conrad, Helen Conrad; brothers, Jerry Conrad, Kelly Conrad, Charles Conrad, David Stump, and Michael Heideman.
At William’s request, there will be no public visitation or funeral service.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham‑Storey‑Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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