William Tanner, Jr., of Ivyland died peacefully on Saturday February 1, at his home with family by his side. He was 89.

Born in Warminster, Bill was the beloved husband of 62 years to Charlotte McNabb Tanner, son of the late William Sr. and Emma Fesmire Tanner and brother of the late Edwin Tanner, Walter R. “Mickey” Tanner, Alberta “Bertie” Forsyth, Eleanor “Tanny” Kimbel and Miriam “Tootsies” Dilks.

Bill was a life long resident of Bucks County. He was a veteran of the United States Army during World War II. His knowledge of automobiles, whether it was modified or new and his driving ability led him to experience the racing circuit. He was life member of NASCAR and was a professional driver was from 1947 to 1956 when he traveled the East coast racing circuit driving many different types of cars.

In 1954 he was the operator of the Mobil Station on Second Street Pike in Richboro, shortly after he had an opportunity to open Bill’s Friendly Service Station directly across the street which he operated from 1955 to 1967. With his knowledge of engines both big and small he opened Richboro Lawn and Garden which he owned till 1976, his hard work and determination never missed a beat in 1976 he started Tanner’s Auto Parts and Salvage in Pipersville, PA.

Bill may have said he retired in 1979, but his hands and mechanical knowledge led him to tinker with antique collectible cars and motorcycles and when not in town he could be found in his garage working on several vehicles.

Bill looked forward to playing cards with friends and bowling in several leagues. His smile and firm handshake will be remembered by all, his love of family and honesty will be forever remembered.

In addition to his beloved wife, he his survived by his 3 devoted children; William Tanner, III and his wife Laura Jean, Chianne M. Gourley and her husband Robert and Brett Tanner and Mary Estes. Dear brother of Arlene Luff, Sally Maximuck, Leonard Tanner and his wife Dorothy and Norman Tanner and his wife Joan and his sisters-in-law Thelma Tanner and Grace Tanner and brother in law George Forsyth. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren: Christy, Crystal, Billy, Rob, Amber, Tommy, and Matt and 3 great grandchildren; Joe, Addison and Bryce.

In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory may be made to Doylestown Hospital Hospice 595 W. State St. Doylestown, PA 18901or Pickering Manor Home 226 N. Lincoln Ave. Newtown, PA 18940.