William Eugene Tecil
William Eugene “Bill” Tecil (Tisza), of Painesville, Ohio, crossed his final finish line on Feb. 16, 2026, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, laughter and deep devotion to his family.
Born July 25, 1937, in Painesville, Ohio, Bill was proud of his roots and the life he built in Northeast Ohio.
He served his country honorably as a Staff Sergeant (E-6) in the United States Army, stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas.
After his military service, he retired from the City of Painesville Water Department, where he was known as the “meter whisperer” for his uncanny ability to repair water meters. His career also included working at Diamond Shamrock Research Center, Fluid Controls, and Uniroyal Chemical Company. He later served as chairman of the audit committee and treasurer for Chemical & Plastics Credit Union, always believing in responsibility, commitment and doing things the right way.
Bill gave generously of his time and heart. A 10-gallon blood donor and CPR instructor, he quietly saved countless lives.
He was deeply devoted to the Masonic community through Lakeshore Lodge #307, serving as Worshipful Master twice, District Education Officer and later as District Deputy Grand Master of the 25th Masonic District as well as involved with The Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees. His involvement extended to Royal Arch Masons Eagle Commandery, Knights Templar, Caliph Grotto, MOVPER, Scottish Rite (32°), Eastern Star, and as a proud DeMolay “Dad” Advisor. He was also a member of American Legion Post 48 of Painesville, the Veterans Organization of Painesville and a lifetime member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #549.
In his early years, Bill loved building “hot rods” custom and drag racing and was a charter member of the Knightwinder Car Club of Painesville. His prized Caddy powered ’40 Ford Coupe’ was more than a car, it was an extension of his spirit. He had a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship, collecting Victorian lamps and Victorian clocks that filled his home with character and stories.
Bill cherished fishing trips and family vacations to fish in Campbellford, Ontario, traditions built on laughter and memories that will last for generations.
Alongside his beloved wife, Patricia N. Tecil, whom he married on June 12, 1965, Bill traveled all over the country, Italy and visited the “motherland” in Budapest, Hungry. After her passing in 2012, he continued to carry her love in his heart. Together they built a life centered on family, happiness, and a love for spending time with friends both old and new.
To everyone who met him, Bill was known for the smile that was always on his face. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease. His friendly, kind, and loving nature could light up a room—sometimes brighter than one of his treasured antique lamps.
He is survived by his daughters, Michelle Tecil (Jim Sheridan) and Tanya (Tecil) Parsons (Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Mike Parsons); his cherished grandchildren, Ella Parsons and Jack Parsons; his brother, Wayne (Julia Mae) Tecil; his sister-in-law, Caroline (George) Evans; his nieces, Janeese (Billy) Mackey, Christina (Eric) Fenner, Jennifer (Jack) Hogan and Evie Evans; his nephew, James Evans; and many great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret (Horvath) and William Tecil; his nephew, Timothy Evans; and his niece, Tina Texierra.
More than anything, Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, playful spirit and unwavering love for his family. We will remember his love of Frank Sinatra (“My Way” feels especially fitting) and the way he showed up for his Country, his Community and his Family.
Laughter and legacy will echo in the hearts of those who knew him—like the gentle rumble of a ’40 Ford’ rolling down a long open road.
Friends may call on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, from 2-5 p.m. at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon.
The funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, at The Church of the Resurrection, 32001 Canon Road, Solon, Ohio. After mass, family and friends will continue to the burial of both Bill and Pat Tecil at St. Mary’s Cemetery, end of South State Street, Painesville, Ohio.
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
