William “Bill” Naset, 86, of Plant City, died Oct. 1, 2015.
Mr. Naset was born Jan. 4, 1929 in Watertown, Wisconsin. He and his wife, Beverly, were prom king and queen of their high school graduating class. They were married in 1950, and Beverly was always by his side.
After college, he taught algebra and band in Wisconsin, and played trumpet for the Dixie Land Jazz Band.
He and Beverly traveled with the band before moving to Florida in 1957. He taught Algebra and DCT at Plant City High School until 1968, where he enjoyed assisting band director Stu Bruner with the Band Shell concerts.
He worked at First National Bank until 1969, when he and Beverly had the opportunity to operate Maryland Fried Chicken, which became a family business.
He was a member of the Plant City Elks Lodge. He appreciated and respected all his former students and customers with kind words and conversation.
His talent and love for music began at a very young age. He was a very accomplished musician and enjoyed a lifelong friendship with Thea Haynsworth for 54 years. During that time they brought endless joy to so many people with their musical talent.
Because of his work ethic, amazing patience and tenacity, he prevailed in all aspects of his life, from weekend dance jobs, running the family business and building the family home. He was loved and admired by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Beverly; sons, Craig Naset (Teri), of Moreno, California, and Mark Naset (Brenda), of Plant City; daughters, Kim McElveen (Scott), of Plant City, and Tavia Cowell (Doug); eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ihde.
A celebration of life was held Monday, Oct. 5, at Hopewell Funeral Home.
A committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Plant City High School Band, 1 Raider Place, Plant City, 33563.
Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.