William Earl Jackson, age 80, of Portage, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2019. He was born on October 2, 1938 to the late L.E. and Katherine (nee Scott) Jackson in Manila, Arkansas. On April 13, 1985, he married Diane Neloff. William retired from Inland Steel and proudly served his country in the United States Navy.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother uncle and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Diane C. Jackson; son, William (Barb) Jackson; step son, Shane (Stacey) Walleske; step daughter, Deanna (Geo) Shell-Forton; brother, James Jackson; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenny and sister, Liz.

A memorial service for William will be held Sunday, June 23,2019 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at the Moose Lodge, 3075 County Line Road, Portage, Indiana 46368. Cremation was entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave. Portage, Indiana 46368. (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com