William R. Tetzlaff

William R. Tetzlaff, 79, of Port Clinton, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton. He was born on September 28, 1941 in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of the late Wilbur and Jeanette (Eggert) Tetzlaff. After graduating from West Technical high school, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, where he was stationed in Italy on the USS Gallatin. He served from 1960 through 1980 and earned the rank of an E7- Chief Petty Officer. For a short time, he also served at the Detroit and Marblehead Coast Guard stations. After his discharge from the Coast Guard, he worked as the Freight Department Manager for Miller Boat Line on Catawba Island for 22 years, retiring in 2012. He was a member of both the Port Clinton VFW Post #2480, and the American Legion Post #113. Due to his love for the water and his career in the military, he enjoyed ships, lighthouses, and anything nautical. He also loved to cook, but life with his extended family was most important to him. Survivors include his brother, John Tetzlaff, Olmsted Falls Twp, Ohio; sister, Debbie Krelich, Lakewood, Ohio; Denise Ontko, Maple Heights, Ohio; and Darlene Mathews, Cleveland, Ohio; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Gene Tetzlaff and James Tetzlaff; his sister, Joanie Meyer; and life partner Charlene Fillmore. Due to the Pandemic, cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in William’s memory may be made to Coast Guard Auxiliary, American Cancer Society, or Ottawa County Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com The Gerner-Wolf-Walker Funeral Home and Crematory, 216 Washington Street, Port Clinton, Ohio assisted the family with arrangements.