Genzer was born to Joseph and Anna Chumchal Genzer on May 7, 1933, in East Bernard. Genzer grew up in East Bernard where he worked picking cotton and helped support his family after the death of his father. He graduated from East Bernard High School where he was a star football player. His teammates affectionately nicknamed him “Guinea” for his speed and knack for scoring many touchdowns. After high school, Genzer joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany where he patrolled the Iron Curtain. After returning home, Genzer was hired by Gulf State Tube/ Quanex Building Products and worked his way up to managerial positions. He dedicated 36 years to the company before retiring. Genzer’s passion for running remained with him throughout his life. At the age of 40, he began running marathons annually for 20 years. He participated in numerous Houston marathons, as well as events in Hawaii and Luckenbach, where he even ran alongside and became friends with Willie Nelson.

In addition to running, Genzer had a passion for auctioneering. For 30 years, he traveled across Texas, sharing his talent and enthusiasm with many Texas communities. Genzer had a deep love for his faith and was a devoted member of St. Roch Catholic Church. He found great joy and comfort in attending Mass, participating in church events, and supporting his parish community. Genzer shared the last 21 years of his life with his beloved Rose Marie, cherishing every moment together. He loved Rose Marie and her family as his own and they felt the same way.

Bill will be fondly remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for others. His caring nature, selflessness, and friendly spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Genzer and Anna Genzer; brother, Joseph Genzer; sister, Annie Hanzelka; ex-wife, Warrene Malek Genzer of 16 years; and stepdaughter, Rhonda Thumann Pesak.

Bill is survived by his wife, Rose Marie Thumann; stepdaughter Dorraine Petras and husband, Richard Petras II; stepson, Leonard Jr. and wife, Denise Thumann; and 9 step-grandchildren, Richard Petras III, Katherine Fruit, Julia Bean, Michael Petras, Leo Thumann, Christian Thumann, Edward Pesak, Emilie Pesak and Ericka Pesak.

A visitation was held on Tuesday, March 25, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 pm and a rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home, 1515 Montezuma St, Columbus. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, March 26, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Roch Catholic Church, 1600 Frelsburg Rd, Alleyton, with Rev. Wayne Flagg officiating.

Interment was held on Thursday, March 27, at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in the Mausoleum Chapel, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston.

Pallbearers were Leonard Thumann, Jr, Richard Petras II, Richard Petras III, Katherine Fruit, Julia Bean, Michael Petras, Leo Thumann, Christian Thumann, Edward Pesak, Emilie Pesak and Ericka Pesak.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Roch Catholic Church Altar Society, 1600 Frelsburg Rd., Alleyton, Texas, or to the Colorado County EMS, 305 Radio Lane, #101, Columbus, 78934, c/o Chief Michael Furrh.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.