Born in Martinsburg, WV on August 23rd, 1860, William W. Westphal was the son of Charles and Catherine Westphal. He became a veteran banker, farm owner, politician, and volunteer fire department organization executive and friend.
Mr. Westphal had been a director of The Old National Bank for 51 years and vice-president for 47 years. He was elected a member of West Virginia state house of delegates from Berkeley County, 1905-06. In March of 1939 Equality Lodge No. 44 A. F. and A. M., presented him a veterans pin in recognition of his 50 years as a mason. He served 27 years as the president of Hose Co. No. 5, in February, 1937 the hose company honored him by changing the company name to Westphal Hose Co. No. 5.
W. W. operated the old Valley House Hotel with his mother in the late 1800’s. He was the owner of two farms and a breeder of American Short-Horned cattle.
Friday afternoon July 18th, 1941, W. W. Westphal died at his home, 200 West Race Street. He was laid to rest in his home with funeral services being conducted Sunday afternoon at 3:30. Westphal Hose Co. No. 5 was in charge of the funeral arrangements and conducted the graveside ceremony. Immediate family preceding him in death was his sister who died in February, 1942 and his wife Mammie who died in April, 1937. Surviving family members as of his death included several cousins, including a first cousin, Mrs. Mary DeHaven, North Queen Street. Rev. Dr. A. M. Gluck from Christ Reformed Church conducted the funeral service. W. W. Westphal was buried in Green Hill Cemetery.
