William Maurice “Bill” Truman, 76, of Morgantown, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 10, 2026. He was born on January 15, 1949, to the late Bill and Betty Truman.
Bill shared 58 dedicated years of marriage with his loving wife, Sandy Truman, and together they raised four children: Michael Truman, Amy Adkins (Andrew), Susan Schmidt (Ammon) and Carrie Truman. He is also survived by his brother, Jim Truman (Gale) and his sister, Beth Guiser (Ray).
Bill earned a PhD in Electrical Engineering from West Virginia University. During graduate school, he conducted research for NASA through the Langley Research Center. Following graduation, he worked on system improvements for Morgantown’s Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, which marked the beginning of a distinguished career in engineering. He went on to serve as a senior and lead engineer for several companies, including Westinghouse, where he contributed to multiple patented innovations.
Throughout his 47-year career, Bill traveled extensively, designing systems and speaking at conferences around the world. His professional work took Bill and his family to many cities and states. While employed by Mercedes-Benz, he was selected to relocate with his family to Berlin, Germany, where he led process improvement initiatives. Highly respected in his field, Bill later became a consultant for numerous cities worldwide, helping to improve public transportation systems in major metropolitan areas. He mainly worked in Washington, D.C., New York City, Pittsburgh, Miami, Philadelphia and Seattle. Notwithstanding his many professional accomplishments, Bill’s greatest priority was always his family. He was a devoted provider and a steady example of integrity and love.
As a lifelong learner, Bill found joy in gaining knowledge and spending time outdoors. His many interests included family history research, learning new languages and musical instruments, camping, hiking, motorcycling, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, kayaking, birdwatching and above all, quality time with his family.
Bill was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He faithfully attended services, regularly worshiped in the temple, studied his scriptures daily, and diligently knelt in prayer. Gifted with a beautiful singing voice, he enjoyed singing in his church choirs. He willingly served others throughout his life, holding numerous leadership and teaching positions.
Affectionately known as “Papaw,” Bill is also survived by his grandson, Avram Adkins; and five Schmidt step-grandchildren: Ashton, Azlyn, Crishtyn, Jack and Finlee.
We will never forget the lessons he taught, the experiences he provided and for every drop of love, strength, guidance and provision he gave.
Friends may gather at McCulla Funeral Home for the viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, January 16. The service will begin at 11 a.m. William will be peacefully laid to rest in the Halleck Cemetery.
Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.McCulla.com
