William S. Langer

William "Umpa" S. Langer of Brockton, Massachusetts, an honorary retiree of IUEC Local 4, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on September 27, 1956, in Stoughton, Massachusetts, where he attended the Stoughton school system.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, U.S. Army, from 1974 to 1976. He was honorably discharged as a Private First Class (PFC) and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Sharpshooter Qualification Badge (M-16). His love for the United States and the values it stood for remained unwavering throughout his life.

He dedicated much of his career to the elevator industry, where his extensive knowledge of electronics and the trade earned him the respect of many. While employed with Star Elevator, he was loaned to several companies, including Belle Elevator, Shannon Elevator, City Elevator, Labreck Elevator, and Ahern Elevator. He later worked with Estrella and Star Elevator building controllers before branching out to create his own signature vertical controls under the name "FF Chance," which later became Control Systems and Devices. Bill eventually concluded his career with Boston Elevator, serving both in the field and in the office as a proud member of IUEC Local 4.

Bill had an inquisitive mind and was happiest when he was learning, reading, or figuring out how something worked. He loved anything electronic and could often be found tinkering with electrical projects. He also loved discovering new restaurants and sharing those experiences with family and friends, believing that a good meal was always better when enjoyed together.

Bill leaves behind his former wife and lifelong friend, Donna Kolbe of Iowa; his son, Justin (Amber) Langer of Brockton, Massachusetts; and his daughter, Bethany (Trieg) Sledge of Ankeny, Iowa. He is also survived by his sisters, Dotty (Bob) Stanlaske of Washington, Cheryl Morr of Illinois, and Theresa McCafferey (Steven) of Taunton, Massachusetts; his sister-in-law Mary Langer of East Bridgewater; his brothers, Michael (Doris) Langer of Middleboro, Massachusetts, and Joseph (Lori) Langer of Stoughton, Massachusetts.

His greatest joy in life was being "Umpa" to his beloved grandchildren, Aubrey, Ethan, Logan, and Xeke. He will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his sisters, Margaret "Peggy" and Susan, and his brothers, Robert "Bob" (Sharon) and Leslie "Chip."

In accordance with Bill's wishes, services will be private and held at a later date for family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project. If Bill could leave everyone with a few final thoughts, they would be these: register to vote, love your country, and love your animals until they can't be loved anymore.