July
31, 1934 - Oct. 20, 2009SOUTH BEND - William R. Siminski, 75, of South Bend passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at his residence with his family at his bedside. Bill was born on July 31, 1934 in Indiana Harbor, IN to the late William and Olympia (Dobrzanski) Siminski. Bill graduated from East Chicago, Washington High School in 1952. He enlisted in the Air Force for four years spending two years in Alaska receiving an honorable discharge in 1960. In 1958 he continued his education at Indiana University Bloomington, receiving a B.A. degree in Radio and Television Communication. Bill married the former Alice Vera in Hammond, IN., on September 29, 1956. Bill and Alice shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Survivors include his wife, Alice and their daughter, Deborah (Paul) Tappan of Knoxville TN. Several cousins Barbara Johnson, Cynthia (Ron) Fary, Monica (Andre) Correa, Eddy Wojcik Sr., Lisa (Kevin) McGing and Eddy (Jr.) Wojcik and a Godchild Laurie (Jim) Pardonek. He was preceded in death by an Uncle Joe Siminski, Aunt Helen Siminski, Aunt Lillian Judis, his grandmother Frances Siminski, a Cousin Pat Wojcik and John Getz. Bill was employed by WNDU TV Channel 16 in 1961 as a Director, Production Mgr. and Creative Director. He was an adviser for the Junior Achievement television show "Beyond Our Control" for several years. Bill received numerous achievement awards for his creativity including ADI awards. He was a mentor to Notre Dame interns in Telecommunications. Bill retired after 35 years of service. Bill had a love of photography, which he passed on to his daughter Deb. Bill was a man with a great sense of humor and he enjoyed performing pranks on his co-workers, family and friends. Bill enjoyed cooking for his family and was an avid fan of Notre Dame football. Bill was extremely compassionate and he cherished his family and friends. Bill and Alice traveled extensively including a trip to Europe and a recent trip to Hawaii. Bill and Alice were members of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, University of Notre Dame. A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 26, 2009 at Bubb Funeral Chapel 3910 N. Main St. in Mishawaka at 11:00 am with Rev. Thomas J. Jones, CSC officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, 2506 Grape Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.