DEBELAK, William Richard (Bill)

Vistoso Funeral Home, Oro Valley, Arizona William Debelak February 10, 1943 - June 18, 2013 William Richard Debelak (10 February 1943 - 18 June 2013) lost his 2-year struggle with cancer. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to William Debelak Sr. and Albena Ogrin, graduated from University School of Milwaukee in 1961, and Bradley University in Peoria IL in 1966. He married Ellen Riess on 18 December 1965, had two daughters, and relocated his family to their adopted hometown of Tucson in 1979. Throughout his professional life he was highly admired by his co-workers at Debelak Brothers, University Mechanical Contractors, and CAID Industries. Bill died peacefully at home, in the comfort of his own bed, with his wife Ellen and daughter Joanne and his beloved golden retriever Molly nearby. Like so much that he did in life, he met his cancer diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and eventual death with an admirable strength of spirit, while continuing to set a bold example of fortitude and dignity. His family and all who knew him will miss him tremendously. He will be remembered for the wonderful examples he set: First and foremost by being a devoted husband and father, a nurturing grandfather, and a loyal friend. Moreover, his work ethic was beyond compare in everything he did, from his start with the family business in Milwaukee, to his brave move to forge his own path when he moved his young family half-way across the country to Arizona. His attention to detail and dedication to a job well-done transferred seamlessly from his professional career to every one of his personal pursuits. Whether he was managing the design and construction of a multi-million dollar development or simply completing a home improvement project, he approached every task with careful preparation, a full cadre of proper tools, and a thoroughness that ensured a quality and lasting result. Bill believed in careful thought, was never prone to snap judgements, and with the exception of listening to his barber about getting that permanent wave in the 70s, rarely made a misguided decision that he would regret. His family and friends drew great comfort from his steady, predictable nature and realized early that they could always count on him to provide respect, compassion, and a sensible way of seeing solutions to problems and to living life honestly and honorably. He brought equal measures of intelligence and wit to any conversation. He was extremely serious, but didn't take himself too seriously. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. He is survived by his wife Ellen, daughters Janet Tyburec (Eric), Joanne Spencer, and grandchildren, Jared and Reese Tyburec and Tristan Spencer. At Bill's request, there will be no formal services. Friends are encouraged to remember him in their own personal way. But, because he valued hard work, fine craftsmanship, and respected everyone, no matter their station in life, please consider honoring his memory by making a contribution to The WEST, whose proceeds benefit women's and children's charities in Southern Arizona (5615 E. River Road, Suite 100, Tucson AZ 85750; http://www.thewestinc.com)