William "Bill" J. Pacillo, Jr.

A hard working family man who loved nothing more than sharing his life side-by-side with the family he loved, Bill Pacillo leaves much to be remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Music touched Bill's heart in a profound way, and it wasn't unusual for him to pick up his guitar and play for those enjoying his company. A family man through and through, the memory of Bill will live on by all who came to know him. Nestled in the lakefront city of Muskegon, Michigan, Bill's story began in the year 1931 as difficult days of the Great Depression created a jobless rate of nearly four million. Yet even as unemployment skyrocketed, many remained hopeful. People across the nation were in awe as New York City opened the Empire State Building, and celebrated as the Star-Spangled banner became the nation's anthem. For William, Sr. and Theresa (Portincasa) Pacillo, the days were made brighter when they welcomed the birth of their little boy, William J. Pacillo, Jr. on November 1, 1931. Although William always had a hunch he was actually born on Halloween, his mother maintained he was indeed born on the first of November due to her religious convictions. William grew up in their family home on Fleming Street in East Muskegon. He was raised alongside two older sisters, Mary and Vi, and later welcomed younger sister, Jo. His parents owned and operated the Pacillo Market on Getty Street for many years. It was also the place where William learned his hard work ethic. He attended Oakview Elementary School where he was a friend to many, especially good friends, Dave, Carl, Danny, and Big Bill. During his youth, he had a pony and later, a horse named Trigger which he lovingly cared for. At the age of 14, Bill acquired his first car, a Ford Model A for $15.00. At the time he was able to have a driver's license, and held on to the car for quite some time. It was also at the age of 14 when Bill's musical abilities came to the forefront of his life. To Bill, having a guitar in his hands quickly became second nature to him. He taught himself how to play and went on to become an accomplished player even though he never learned how to read notes. During high school, Bill's main interest included music, particularly country. He was also into horses and cars. As the nation came together for the war effort, World War II was news of the day which affected nearly every American family in one way or another. Even so, Bill and his family enjoyed spending time at the cottage at Middle Lake each summer where enjoyable times were shared. They also visited Bill's aunt and uncle who lived in the Upper Peninsula where they took in the sights. In 1949, Bill went on to graduate from Muskegon High School with hopes for a bright future. Bill's heart's desire and aspiration was his hope of making it big in Nashville one day. He even traveled to Nashville in his earlier years, and met Ernest Tubb and Hank Williams, Sr. Later in life, he was pictured with country crooner, Mel Tillis. Throughout the years, Bill played in Bob Storch's Polka Band and various other area bands. While playing a gig at Mona Lake Park, he met the young woman who would come to love him for the rest of his days. Bill met Carol Lofquist who was with her cousin and another friend on that fateful day. Quite smitten, sparks flew and Bill was never the same. He and Carol dated for a time, and on September 6, 1952, the young couple married in their hometown of Muskegon. As newlyweds, Bill and his new bride began their new life together, settling in East Muskegon's community of Cloverville. Soon blessed with a family of their own, they eventually welcomed five children into their lives. Son, Bill came along in 1953, and daughter Deb followed in 1955. Lori was born in 1961, Nancy in 1964, and son Tom completed their household in 1970. Devout to their Catholic faith, Bill and Carol raised their children in faith. They were communicants of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church where each of their children received the Holy Sacraments. Like his own upbringing, Bill knew the importance of enjoying life with family by his side. They always had a wonderful time together at their property on Little Black Lake in Norton Shores and gathered there for numerous occasions. They also enjoyed camping, especially at Burt Lake State Park at Indian River, Michigan and traveling to Florida for vacations when they could get away. During their leisure, Bill and Carol were involved with square dancing and made many good friends throughout the years doing so. Bill also kept busy as a life member of the Muskegon Eagles #668 and as a member of the Carpenters Union Local 100. In earlier years, Bill was a member of the Sons of Italy. His love of cars continued, and he thoroughly enjoyed his 1967 Mustang which was his pride and joy. After working at Brunswick for 37 years, Bill retired in 1990. Already blessed with the addition of grandchildren in his life, he now had more time to spend with them. They enjoyed camping together, and Bill loved getting them together for some of his story telling. He made them small boats along with many other things with his coping saw. Of course, nothing brought him greater joy than playing his guitar and singing to them. Bill was especially proud of his grandson, Danny who was a National Guardsman, having been deployed on three separate occasions. In all ways, Bill Pacillo was a family man whose life was centered around family. He will be remembered for his talent and passion for country music. Most importantly, when thoughts of Bill come to mind, he will be fondly remembered for the love and dedication to those he loved. Deeply missed, he will be remembered with joy. At the age of 82, William "Bill" J. Pacillo Jr. passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at his home. SURVIVORS: Wife of 61 years, Carol; daughters, Deb (Dan) Bowen of Muskegon, Lori (Deyon) Everett of Port Charlotte FL, Nancy (Todd Hall) Griffith of North Port, FL; sons, Bill (Doris Yerkie) Pacillo and Thomas (Heidi) Pacillo, both of Fruitport; 17 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mary Ulmer, Vi Dyga, and Jo Bowen. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Saturday, March 15, 2014, 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior to the service at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Antony Britto officiating. Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery. VISITATION: Friday, 6-8 PM at Clock Funeral Home-Muskegon. MEMORIAL: Harbor Hospice. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to share a favorite memory or photo of Bill and to sign his online guest book. Clock Funeral Home-Muskegon.