Page created by: the Lentz Family

William Joseph Lentz, “Bill”, 71, passed away on February 9th, 2025, Super Bowl Sunday, a day fitting for a man whose life was defined by strength, perseverance, and quiet victories. It feels only right that his Philadelphia Eagles won that night—one more triumph in a life spent facing every challenge with heart and determination. We’re sure the Eagles had a little extra help pulling off the victory.

Bill will be lovingly remembered by his adored wife of 46 years, M. Beth (O’Donnell) Lentz; loving daughter Erin Toohey and son-in-law Brendan, their son and beloved grandchild, Conall; sister, Donna Allio (Carl); brothers-in-law Edward O’Donnell (Sue), and Tim O’Donnell (Lisa) as well as many loving nieces and nephews, their children, and countless friends from over the years.

Bill was predeceased by his dear son, Shawn P. Lentz; as well as his father, Joseph Lentz, and his mother, Shirley. He was deeply cherished by his in-laws, Edward and Patricia O’Donnell.

Bill and Beth first met 55 years ago in college at Edinboro University (PA), and shared an incredible 46-year marriage bound by love, partnership, and devotion. Their journey took them around the globe, from Lake Placid, NY to Roth, Germany, to British Columbia, and Panama City, FL, as Bill competed in 9 Ironman Triathlons, turning each event into an adventure. Bill's crowning achievement was completing the infamous Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Bill had a long and successful career working for Mack Trucks in Allentown, PA, and later Volvo Trucks in Greensboro, NC, building wonderful lives and treasured friendships in each place.

In recent years, Bill and Beth settled into life in Palm Coast, Florida, embracing a slower pace—riding electric bikes, enjoying the beach, and relaxing by their beautiful pool and tropical backyard, a well-earned oasis after decades of hard work and adventure raising Shawn, Erin, and their many dogs. You’d be hard pressed to find Bill and Beth happier than on a sunny day at a Florida beach.

Bill was an athlete and competitor to his core, a NCAA Division III basketball player at Edinboro College who later pushed his limits as an Ironman triathlete. But his greatest test of endurance came in his battle with Parkinson’s disease, which he faced with unwavering courage and resilience. He never fought alone—his wife, Beth, his daughter, Erin, and her husband, Brendan, joined him in the fight, becoming marathoners and cyclists in his honor, racing for and raising funds to support The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

While his athletic pursuits were unparalleled, his greatest pride and joy was most certainly his family. A fiercely devoted husband, father, and Pappy, he was a provider in every sense—offering strength, kindness, and an unwavering love that knew no bounds. Bill was selfless. There was no prouder dad than Bill, and nothing brought him more joy than cheering on his family, whether in sports, in life, or simply around the dinner table.

Bill was a gentle, kind, thoughtful, and generous soul, a man who led not with words but with actions, always showing up when it mattered most. His love was deep, his presence steady, and his impact immeasurable. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on—in the races run, in the lessons passed down, and in the unbreakable bonds of the family and friends he cherished so much and that made his life so full.

Thank you for donating in his memory to find a cure!