Beloved Beaver County Baseball Coach and Korean War Veteran William A. Staats Passes Away at 95, Leaving Behind 69 Years of Marriage, a Devoted Family, and a Lifetime of Community Service

His legacy as a coach, veteran, husband, father, and grandfather will continue to inspire those who knew him.

December 26, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 26, 2026

William A. Staats, a beloved former baseball coach and dedicated community member from Beaver County, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on Tuesday, December 23, 2026, at Cambridge Village in Patterson Township.

Born on December 20, 1930, in Liverpool, West Virginia, to parents Aubrey and Rachel Knopp Staats, Bill grew up alongside his siblings Zelma, Eleanor, and Arlene.

He graduated from Beaver Area Senior High School in 1949, laying the foundation for a life marked by service, hard work, and a deep passion for family and sports.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Bill served during the Korean Conflict, an experience that instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and resilience.

Following his military service, he built a long and stable career, retiring after 30 years at Crucible Colt Steel.

He later took on roles at Sears Automotive and as a courier for Sky Bank, always approaching his work with the same reliability and kindness that defined him.

Beyond his professional life, Bill was deeply involved in his community.

He was an active member of the Jamie Jammers Square Dance Club, the Beaver County Men’s Bowling League, and the Men of Melody singers.

His commitment to helping others extended to his longtime involvement with the Vanport Volunteer Fire Department.

Above all, though, many remember him for his years as a baseball coach, where he mentored young athletes, shared his love of the game, and left a lasting impact on the local sports community in Beaver County.

Bill was married to his loving wife, Blanche, for 69 wonderful years, a partnership built on mutual support and enduring affection.

He is survived by Blanche, his son Gray Staats, along with grandchildren, including Krista Borgardt, and great-grandchildren.

His family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

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The loss has been felt deeply by those closest to him

His granddaughter Krista Borgardt shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, writing:

“The world lost one of the best men I’ve ever known this week. My Pap was gentle, kind, and friendly to everyone he’s ever met. He loved his family fiercely and was my unwavering supporter, cheering me on from the sidelines of every important milestone in my life. When I was born he had decided to be a stay-at-home Pap for a year or so to take care of me while my parents and Gram were at work. Besides my parents he was my first best friend and we have been incredibly close my whole life. I am so grateful for the love, memories, and lessons he gave me. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. This is a tough Christmas not having him here with us, but I’m grateful to be here with my family back in Pennsylvania.”

Via

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Zelma Staats, Eleanor (Harley) Webb, and Arlene Preston.

on Saturday, December 27, 2026 (noting the original mention of December 26 services, but confirming the date aligns with typical arrangements following the Tuesday passing).

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by services at 4:00 PM at Gabauer-Todd Funeral Home & Cremation Services (Branch), located at 340 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009.

William A. Staats lived a full, generous life defined by quiet strength, community spirit, and unwavering love for his family.

His legacy as a coach, veteran, husband, father, and grandfather will continue to inspire those who knew him.

In this difficult holiday season, his memory brings comfort amid the sorrow, reminding everyone of the huge impact one kind life can have.

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