William H. "Bill" Hite

William H. "Bill" Hite, 61, South Port, Florida, and formerly of Goshen, died unexpectedly September 4, 2012 at his home. He was born February 11, 1951 in Goshen to Willis "Bill" and Phyllis (Smith) Hite. He is survived by his father and step-mother, Bill and Betty J. (Slabach) Hite of Middlebury; a brother, Dennis Hite of New Paris; a niece, Haily Hite of North Manchester; and cousins, Steve and Joy Hite of Goshen. He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Hite July 6, 2000. Growing up in Goshen, Bill was known as "Butch" to his family and closest friends, but most everyone who knew him while attending Goshen High School knew him as "Bill". Bill moved to Florida from Goshen in 1994 where he worked many years for Phoenix Construction, Glenhaven, as equipment maintenance supervisor. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, South Port, Florida, and a very active member of the Legion Riders. He was a longtime motorcycle enthusiast. He strongly valued his many friends and close friendships made through motorcycling and the American Legion. Jerry Morgan, USMC, has personally transported Bill's cremains from Florida to Elkhart County for hand delivery to his father, Willis. Friends may call 5 to 7 p.m., Monday, October 1, 2012, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home where a 7 p.m. memorial service will be conducted. Pastor Gary Sheets, Shipshewana Nazarene Church, will officiate.