On April 3, 2020, I lit a candle for my sister’s best friend and my brother in law, Bill.
He was her bright, joyful sidekick and my heart aches for his passing.
—
As I publish this months later, it still very much feels surreal.
So much has happened since.
There has been hardship, worry, uncertainty and loss all around.
But I believe the pendulum swings and we’re due for some good.
I am happy to know that at this very moment, my sister is surrounded by all of her children and grandchildren.
Lifting their spirits, and Bill’s.
William L. Steck Jr.
We called him Bill.
He loved and enjoyed life deeply.
He served our great country proudly in the Air Force after graduating from Bishop Timon.
He was enjoying retirement from Erie County Corrections where he spent his career as an officer.
All Bill needed for a good night was spending time with friends and family around a bonfire for a great night. Throw in some fireworks or a dip in the hot tub.
He enjoyed spending time with a crossword or a good book.
He enjoyed nights of Texas Hold ‘em with his friends and a cold Stella Artois.
He loved his hometown of Buffalo and never missed catching the Bills or Sabre’s play. Even better if there was a double pepperoni sheet pizza and wings from Imperial to pass around. (He also rooted for his brother’s alma mater, Notre Dame.)
He loved meat and potatoes. (In fact, potatoes were his only favorite vegetable.)
He loved the Boss—catching Springsteen and Little Steven anytime they toured.
He loved to travel. You’d find him with a smile on his face if there was sunshine or a beach involved. He also loved heading to Cincinnati to spend time with extended family.
Along with his wife, he loved Halloween a little extra, as was apparent from all the decorations overflowing from their house and on to the lawn. Their yearly celebration in October brought friends and family from all over.
And Bill loved his family, his wife Robin Steck, his sons Nick and Brendan, his Bonus sons Mark, Matthew and daughter Gabrielle, and his 5 grandchildren. His mother Peggy and recently passed dad, Bob Nesslin. He’s survived by his brother and sisters Nick (Kathy) Steck, Cindy (Tony)Turton, Lori (Ray) Conroy, 9 nieces and nephews.
Bill left us too soon.
Until it’s safe for us to get together and celebrate his life—which we will— let’s raise our hearts to him above. May his spirit soar with all the joy and love he put forth in this world.
In lieu of flowers, please wash your hands and hold your loved ones dear. Donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Hospital for all the brave staff.