William J. Powalski

June 22, 1938 - January 22, 2018

William J. Powalski, 79yoa, of Mayfield Heights, Ohio left this world to be with his Lord in heaven on January 22, 2018 surrounded by his loving wife, kids, and grandkids.  When he arrived in heaven, in jeans and flannel, he was greeted by his parents and siblings who have passed before him. He will be remembered as an amazing, giving man with a most sincere soul. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and church member.  He was a compassionate man and well respected.  He touched more lives than a mind can comprehend.  William “Bill” Powalski was born June 22, 1938 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Edward and Helen (Brzezowski) Powalski. He married Barbara Hamilton on May 6, 1961 at St. Felicitas Church in Euclid, Ohio. She resides in Mayfield Heights. They have three children – Cheryl Orians (Dale) of Highland Heights, William Powalski Jr. (Joy) of Eastlake, Karen Sutyak (Daniel) of Solon.  He has two sisters, Carol Kaminski (Ray,dec) and Gail Rhodes (Al).  Preceding him in death are a brother David Powalski and sister Virginia Farone (Carl).  He has 9 grandchildren, Kayla Vitale (George Relic), Ryan Vitale (Julia Lucarelli), Alycia Vitale, Lisa Ruggiero (Matthew), William Powalski III, Megan Powalski, Daniel Sutyak, Mitchell Sutyak and Hallie Sutyak, 3 step-grandchildren Nicole, Riley and Taylor, 2 great-grandchildren Nathan and Bria, 2 step-great-grandchildren River, Sofia and many nieces and nephews. A 1956 graduate of Collinwood High School, he went to work for Sinclair Oil running his own gas/service station, where he enjoyed working on cars as well as racing them.  He went on to work at Nook Industries where he retired.  He loved being with his family and was always present at family gatherings, cherishing his time with his family and playing cards.  After Poker games he would throw the change in the air and the children would gain his riches.  He loved the casino’s and was especially skilled at Crap’s.  He loved to jitterbug and polka which he often showed his skills at weddings and anywhere a band would play 50’s music. This earned him the nickname “Greasy Feet”. 

A man of faith, he was a member of the Church of St. Clare.  A private memorial service was held at his home for family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Western Reserve