Last updated on: January 31, 2025
William Hugh Jenner is probably known more widely as Caitlyn Jenner’s dad, who became a celebrated Olympic gold medal winner and later even an accomplished star in a reality show. Still, William’s life goes much deeper than his status as the father of the celebrity. The man led an adventurous life filled with great courage and commitment towards family and his country. So, let us learn more about this exceptional human being.
Quick Facts About William Hugh Jenner
| Full Name | William Hugh Jenner |
| Birthdate | February 7, 1923 |
| Age (at death) | 77 years old |
| Died | 28 December 2000 |
| Occupation | Tree surgeon, landscaper, boat company worker |
| Military Service | U.S. Army, 5th Ranger Battalion |
| War Participation | World War II (D-Day, Omaha Beach) |
| Military Honors | Bronze Star, Purple Heart |
| Sports Achievement | Silver medal in 100-yard dash (Army Olympics, 1945) |
| Education | Not widely documented |
| Husband/Wife | Esther Jenner (married in 1946) |
| Parents | Hugh Burton Jenner, Bertha M. Cunningham |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Caitlyn Jenner (daughter), Pamela Mettler (daughter), Lisa Jenner (daughter), Burt Jenner (son) (died) |
| Grandchildren | Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, Brody Jenner, Brandon Jenner, Cassandra Marino, Burt Jenner Jr. |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Family
Born February 7, 1923 in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada to parents, he was raised in the Boston area, and eventually made his home in New York. He met and married Esther Jenner in 1946 and they produced four children for their marriage; Caitlyn Jenner, Lisa Jenner, Pamela Mettler and Burt Jenner. Sadly Burt was taken away in an auto accident in 1976. However despite his children and the times he was able to give a happy, caring family to, he loved being their dad.
Military Life and Bravery
Military service marked the greatest turning point in William’s life. During World War II, he was in the U.S. Army and part of the 5th Ranger Battalion, which was engaged in the war’s most intense battles. He was part of the force that landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day. His bravery didn’t go unrewarded. Both his war actions are also rewarded, among which there was the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
But it wasn’t all about being a soldier; there was more to William. He showed his athletic side while in the army. In 1945, he took part in the Army Olympics and took home a silver medal in the 100-yard dash. This became an indicator of his strength and a fact that seemed almost inherent in nature as his daughter Caitlyn, later in life, won an Olympic gold medal.
After the war, William started working on a career in landscaping. He became a tree surgeon, caring for trees and plants. Later, he also worked for the Sierra Boat Company in Carnelian Bay, California. He lived in Carnelian Bay for many years and became well known in the region.
Off the job, he was also a great adventurer. He enjoyed water-skiing and even had the opportunity of flying ultralight planes. His adventurous love inspired his children. He showed Caitlyn and her siblings that life is not to be half-lived but full.
A Father and Grandfather
He was more than being a war hero and an adventure; he was a proud father and grandfather. His daughter Caitlyn is one of the most famous personalities in the world. Caitlyn, a former Olympic athlete, made history by winning a gold medal in decathlon at the 1976 Summer Olympics. Later, she became a reality TV star on the show Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Caitlyn has six children from three marriages, including well-known daughters Kendall and Kylie Jenner.
Even though William’s son Burt died, his legacy lives on through Caitlyn and her children. Caitlyn has used her platform to bring attention to the LGBTQ+ community, a cause that is dear to her heart.
READ ALSO: Caitlyn Jenner Net worth, Age, Girlfriend, Family, Facts & More
Later Years and Legacy
William Hugh Jenner spent his older years in Carnelian Bay, California. A long battle against cancer finally won out on 28 December 2000 with his death, aged 77. Though long gone, much of his life and the effort he made in his country and for his family and community endure.
He was given full honors burial at Arlington National Cemetery, fitting for a man who had so bravely served his country. His family, including Caitlyn, continues to honor his memory in their own ways, making sure that his legacy lives on for generations to come.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
