William R. Lovitt, age 78, of Ransom, Kansas, passed away while surrounded by his family at 6:00 in the evening on Monday, June 20, 2016 at the KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas after a lengthy battle with complications from lung disease, heart disease, and cancer.

Bill was born on September 19, 1937 in McCracken, to Robert and Grace (Elias) Lovitt. He is survived by his wife Sharon along with their five children; Kathy (Jeff) Hurd of Minneapolis MN, Brad (Lori) Lovitt of Scottsdale, AZ, Jennifer Lovitt, Teresa Lovitt both of Dodge City, KS, and Lora (Scott) Faiman of Columbia, MO. His five grandchildren: Rae Faiman, Clay Faiman, Eric Hurd, Austin Hurd, and Audra Hurd. He is also survived by his sister Shirley Higgins of McCracken, KS.

Bill graduated from McCracken High School in 1955, where he played football and was a standout basketball player. He graduated from Hutchinson Community Junior College in 1957, where he was a starter on the basketball team. After graduating he married Sharon Struthers of Rozel, KS on Aug. 9, 1957.

Bill's love for baseball was embodied as both a player and later as a coach. Playing days were spent with the McCracken Boosters, Ness City Towners and Loretto Blue Jays, as well as with the Hays Larks. Later as a coach for some 18 years, Bill led and mentored numerous young men for the Post 382 American Legion Baseball Team. For many years he and Sharon owned and operated Lovitt's Propane and Appliance in Ransom, while he farmed in Rush and Ness counties. Bill loved spending time with family and friends, hunting, and being on his land. He will be remembered as a fun-loving, hard-working, devoted husband, father, and friend.

Friends may sign the book 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM on Saturday, June 25, 2016 and 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM on Sunday, June 26, 2016 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City.

Rosary will be held at 6:00 PM on Sunday, June 26, at the funeral home.

Funeral service at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 27, 2016 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, McCracken.

Burial will follow at the McCracken City Cemetery. Luncheon will be served at the Ransom VFW immediately following graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church of McCracken Kansas, Ransom VFW Hall, or Arrowhead West.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family by signing the guest book below.