G. William Folkers, 92, of Knox, Indiana, passed away on April 26, 2026. He was born on March 8, 1934, in Knox, Indiana. Bill lived a life rooted in hard work, quiet strength, and deep devotion to his family and his community.
He started his career as an operating engineer on major road construction projects before eventually returning to the family farm, where he raised potatoes, mint, corn, and Black Angus cattle. He later managed the Summit Farm in LaPorte, Indiana for the Indiana Department of Corrections. Bill proudly served on the Starke County Sheriff’s Posse for 50 years. One of his greatest honors was riding with the Lake County Sheriff’s Posse in the Rose Bowl, Cotton Bowl, and in President Ronald Reagan’s 2nd inaugural parade.
He loved basketball - never missing a Hoosier game and spending time outdoors - whether it was mowing the grass with perfect stripes, or quietly watching the hummingbirds. Above all, he cherished his family and was proud of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Bill was the oldest of seven children. His siblings are: Margaret Rice of Auburn, Indiana; Ruth (Bill) McGuire of Knox, Indiana; Tom (Lynn) Folkers of Kokomo, Indiana; Judy (Ken) Mishler of Anderson, Indiana; and Tim (Diana) Folkers of Michigan City, Indiana.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Rodgers Folkers; his parents, George W. Folkers and Alice Anna Folkers; his sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Mike Segerson; and his brother-in-law, Ken Mishler.
He is survived by his children: Bill (Nan) Folkers, Beth (Rick) Neilson, and Kris Arvelo; his grandchildren: Geo (Melinda) Folkers, Ryan Forsness, Amber (Jason) Lee, Graham Folkers, and Hannah (Clay) Barton; and his great-grandchildren: Jaycee Folkers, Piper Folkers, Liam Folkers, Griffin Forsness, Hazel Forsness; Alivia Lee, Magdalyn Rinard, Addison Lee, Sadie Rinard, Holden Barton and June Barton.
Bill’s legacy is one of strength, humility, and unwavering dedication to the people and land he loved. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bill’s life on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with visitation at 11:00 a.m. at M.C. Smith Funeral Home, the service at 12:00 p.m., followed by burial at Eagle Creek Cemetery.
All times are Central Daylight Time.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in Bill's memory to the Knox Athletic Boosters, #1 Redskin Trail, Knox, IN 46534, or a charity of the donor's choosing.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of G. William "Bill" Folkers, visit the Tribute Store.
Upcoming Events
Visitation
9
May
153 E. Washington St
Knox, IN 46534
Service
9
May
153 E. Washington St
Knox, IN 46534
Cemetery Details
Location
0250 N. 700 E.
Knox, IN 46534
