To free the oppressed

Bill was born May 22, 1946, in Hazel Park, Mich. He wore the motto of the Green Berets over his heart from the time he joined the Army Special Forces in 1970 until the day he died. He served three combat tours in Vietnam as a Green Beret and was wounded twice. He was awarded the Silver Star, three Bronze Stars, the Combat Infantry Badge and many other awards. He was a master Army parachutist. He continued to serve his God and country in many ways after he left the Army in 1975. He died from the ravaging cancer that came as a result of hepatitis C he contracted while helping wounded buddies to safety in Vietnam even though he himself was wounded at the same time. A true American hero, he lived his life devoted to the ideals of freedom for all.

Always ready with a quick smile and a helping hand, Bill will be sorely missed. Godspeed, Bill -- we all love you. Pray for us as you join God's Green Berets!

Survivors: Wife, Susan Pelletier; sons, William "Ted" Pelletier Jr. and Dennis Ford; two brothers who are also Army veterans; a sister; and a host of nieces and nephews. One of his nephews, Jim, is serving as a combat infantryman in Iraq.
Published in the Star-Telegram on 12/13/2003.