William L. “Bill” Boxell Remembered for 88 Years of Family Devotion, Hard Work and a Love of Indiana Sports

 William L. “Bill” Boxell is being remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, dedicated employee, and passionate sports fan whose life was deeply connected to his family and the Warren, Indiana, community. Bill passed away at 2:54 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Parkview Huntington Hospital in Huntington. He was 88 years old, leaving behind generations of family members who will continue carrying his memory forward.

Born on January 17, 1938, in Warren, Bill was the son of the late Johnathan “Earl” and Johnina (Long) Boxell. After graduating from Warren High School, he began what became an extraordinary 48-year career with Anaconda Wire and Cable in Marion. His long commitment to the company reflected a strong work ethic and dependability, qualities that also helped shape the life he built for his family.

Bill’s family remained at the center of his world. On April 28, 1956, he married Bonnie (Buckland) Boxell, beginning a marriage that became the foundation of a life filled with family, shared experiences, and community connections. Bonnie preceded him in death, and Bill’s family now carries forward the memories created during their years together and the home life they built side by side.

His love for sports provided another enduring source of enjoyment. Bill closely followed Indiana University athletics, the Indianapolis Colts, and the Indiana Pacers, while also maintaining an appreciation for high school basketball. These interests were more than casual pastimes; they were part of the everyday moments that brought him happiness and gave him opportunities to connect with others who shared his enthusiasm.

Bill’s family includes his son, Robert (Sherri) Boxell of Indianapolis, and daughter Cynthia Samples of Centerville, along with his sister Deanna Johnston of Fort Wayne. He also leaves behind four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His family represents a legacy extending across generations, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and memories associated with Bill will continue to be shared long into the future.

He was preceded in death by his son Jeffery A. Boxell and sister Mona Wilson. Those losses became part of the family’s history and are now remembered alongside the many years Bill shared with the people he loved. For relatives and friends, remembering his life can provide an opportunity to reflect on both the difficult moments and the ordinary experiences that ultimately become some of the most treasured memories.

A graveside service honoring Bill is scheduled for September 1 at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in rural Marion. Family and friends will have an opportunity to gather, pay their respects, and reflect on the life of a man whose journey included decades of work, family devotion, and simple pleasures. Such gatherings can bring comfort by allowing loved ones to stand together during a meaningful moment of remembrance.

William L. “Bill” Boxell leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond his 88 years. His 48-year career, marriage to Bonnie, devotion to his children and grandchildren, and enthusiasm for sports all form important parts of the story his family will remember. While his passing creates an absence for those who knew him, the connections he created will continue through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives, and friends.

Bill’s life demonstrates how a lasting legacy can be built through everyday dedication rather than extraordinary moments alone. His commitment to work, love for family, and enjoyment of familiar traditions created a foundation that remains meaningful today. As his family gathers to honor him, they can look back on nearly nine decades filled with relationships and experiences that shaped the person he became.