William Douglas Eland, 76, of Burlington, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Cumberland Pointe Health Campus in West Lafayette, Indiana.
He was born March 24, 1949, in Burlington, to the late Gilbert and Nellie Neff Eland. On May 28, 1969 he married Linda Lowman in Kahoka, Missouri.
He was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served on active duty during the Vietnam War. A member of First Assembly of God, he faithfully volunteered his time as a Royal Rangers commander, Sunday School teacher, and Board Member. He retired after more than 30 years of service as a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service, where he became affectionately known in the community as the “Whistling Mailman.”
William had a lifelong passion for classic cars from the 1950s and '60s. He enjoyed drag racing down the strip and attending countless car shows over the years with his wife. His love of learning and sharing knowledge led him to create fond memories with his granddaughters through “Ding Dong School,” something he cherished during their early years. William’s love for his family was strong.
Surviving is his wife, Linda; two children: Greg Eland and Kimberly (Patrick) Ringler; grandchildren: Zoe Eland, Avery Ringler, Haley Ringler and Sadey Ringler; sisters: Carmen (David) Walsh of Prosper, Texas and Robin (Duane) Gerling of Burlington. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews and cousins.
William was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law; brothers-in-law: Mark Lowman and Ronald Hutson; sister-in-law Betty Woodley.
Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded.
The visitation for William will be held at 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Lunning Chapel, where the family will meet with friends. A private graveside service will be held in Burlington Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Samaritan’s Purse or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.