William Fleece

William (Bill) Kent Fleece, 86, passed away in his home on January 10, 2026. A lifelong resident of North Salem, Indiana, Bill’s only significant time away from his community was a brief stint in the U.S. Army, which took him to Seattle in the early 1960s. Bill was a man who loved to go fast. A water-skiing enthusiast in his early 20s, he was known to jump, slalom, barefoot, and ski through an entire tank of gas without stopping. His passion for mechanics and velocity extended to motorcycles, fast cars, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Believing the winter season was too short, he once famously outfitted a snowmobile with wheels for summer use; the result was a lightning-fast vehicle with a precarious turning radius that Bill described as "dangerous but fun."

This need for speed led Bill to the 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2-mile dirt tracks of Indiana and Illinois, where he raced stock cars. After achieving proficiency on dirt, he graduated to the asphalt of Raceway Park. Bill was more than a driver; he was a gifted builder who constructed his race cars from scratch. This love of racing persisted throughout his life, taking him to NASCAR tracks across the country and, in later years, to his favorite chair to watch the races religiously. He eventually applied his mechanical mastery to restoring vintage cars, fire trucks, and tractors. His beloved ‘52 Muntz was a frequent winner at prestigious shows, including the Carquest 500 World of Wheels. Following a 31-year career with Indiana Bell, Bill retired to work on the Fleece family farm, where the unparalleled straightness of his lines in the field became legendary.

Bill is survived by his wife of 67 years and constant companion, Joy. His profound love and devotion to Joy likely prolonged his life for many years, as his final thoughts and actions were focused entirely on her continued well-being. He also leaves behind his brother, Bob; two sons, Wade and Cody; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces and nephews. Bill loved and was loved by friends and family alike. His seasonal sojourns to the Red Coconut in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, held a special place in his and Joy’s hearts. The deep and enduring relationships he cultivated throughout his 86 years remain the greatest testament to a life well lived.

Funeral Services will be held at 1pm, Saturday, January 24, 2026, in the Eric MD Bell Funeral Home, where friends are invited to gather with the family from 11am until the time of the funeral service.

Following the funeral service, Mr. Fleece will be laid to rest with military honors at Fairview Cemetery in North Salem, Indiana.

All are encouraged to keep the Fleece family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.