William Fredrick Scharenberg

December 4, 1918 - March 14, 2011

William F. Scharenberg."Gone West...not alone into the sunset but into the company of friends who have gone before them." On March 14, 2011, in the 93rd year of his journey through this life, William F. Scharenberg, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away quietly at Ross Heart Hospital after a brief illness. Bill served family, country, employer and community with the qualities that typify the "Greatest Generation" -- determination, loyalty, honor, courage and grace.

He served in the Ohio National Guard Band Regiment 1935-39; studied mechanical engineering at The Ohio State University 1937-39; joined Battelle Memorial Institute 1940; earned a civilian pilot's license 1941; completed Naval flight training 1942-43; was commissioned in the US Marine Corps and served in Marine Aviation Pacific operations 1943-45. After the war Bill returned to Battelle, where he developed and managed Battelle's Machine Shop services. He contributed to a host of unique projects in mechanical engineering, metallurgy, optics, nuclear research and critical measurement. Bill received many special commendations and was awarded several patents during his 51 years at Battelle.

Although Bill always said he enjoyed every day he went to work, he also enjoyed photography, early hi-fi, astronomy, sailing and radio-controlled model aircraft. Music was a constant love in his life, and he was proudest of his involvement with and contributions to TBDBITL -- the OSU Alumni Marching Band -- helping to lead and support the organization from its earliest years through decades of growth and hundreds of performances.

Bill was born December 4, 1918 to William F. and Audrey Beoddy Scharenberg of Columbus. Preceding him in death were brother David E. Scharenberg and wife Jean N. Scharenberg. Remembering his gentle strength, quiet wisdom and wonderful stories are daughter, Susan Scharenberg (Jeff Young) of Columbus; brother, R. Ted (Jean) Scharenberg of Grove City; sister-in-law, Violet Scharenberg of Marengo, IL; cousins, Janet Reber of Worthington and Frances Ann Sampson of Hilliard; sister-in-law, Helen Benedict of Pasadena, CA; brother-in-law, Joseph Innamorati of Clinton, MA; sister-in-law, Margaret McLaughlin of Lancaster, MA; nieces and nephews; and a lifetime of friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at a later date. Friends who wish may remember Bill through contributions to the Script Ohio Club, 1165 Middleport Drive, Columbus, OH 43235 or Honor Flight Columbus, 2185 Ridgecliff Road, Columbus, OH 43221

Bill was a member of the marching band from 1937 through 1939 and played baritone.