William H. Hampton

William H. Hampton, 75, of Lake Station, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. William was born in Tennessee to the late William A. and Martha R. (nee Fielden) Hampton. He was a dedicated employee of U.S. Steel, where he worked as a millwright for 30 years before retiring on March 31, 2010. William was a man of many talents and lived life with a passion for learning, creating, and sharing his knowledge with others. He was a volunteer firefighter in Lake Station and enjoyed spending time at the Valparaiso Airport with his friends, including flying with his good friend Guy. He had a lifelong love of old street rods and took great pride in building and painting his own cars. Among his favorites was his beautiful 1933 Ford Cabriolet Convertible. William was also an adventurous spirit. He once rode his Enduro motorcycle to Alaska, spending a month traveling with a few of his friends. His family lovingly described him as a perfectionist who took great pride in everything, he did. He was known for being particular about his yard and for always wanting things done just right. Most of all, William loved teaching his friends what he knew about building and working on cars. He was always willing to share his knowledge and skills with others. William was a past member of Hillcrest Baptist Church. To his family, he was so much more than a man of many talents—he was the best husband, father, Poppy, Peepa, brother, uncle, and friend anyone could ask for.

William is survived by his beloved wife, Karlene Hampton, whom he married on December 13, 1980, at First Christian Church in Lake Station; his daughters, Kelly (Tony) Kolosci and Sandra Sue (Chris) Young; his son, Tony Hampton; his three grandchildren, Kelsey Hampton, Cael Young, and Minha Young; his sister, Theresa (John) Roperti; and his nieces and nephews, Tony Shirley Seat, Timmy Seat, Nichole (Jess) Neilen, Natalie Kearns, Brittney (Ryan) Shurley, and Alexandra (Zach) Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William A. and Martha R. Hampton, and his sister, Joy Kowall.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 3:00–6:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart, Indiana 46342. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, with Pastor Bill Taylor officiating. Cremation will follow. William will be deeply missed by his loving family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, knowledge, talents, and memories will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. For more information, please call 219-942-2109 or online condolences can be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes@comcast.net