He was born on March 30, 1932 in Weirton, W.V., to George Sr. and Katherine Yanchiak Wunduke. After completing high school Bill worked in a steel mill. He then joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War as a tank mechanic. Following his honorable discharge he returned home and attended the National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo, Ohio. Bill then relocated to Southern California and began his career as a meat cutter and meat manager in various markets. In 1960 he married the love of his life, Phyllis, and inherited three daughters. They were married for nearly 53 years and truly lived life to the fullest!
They moved to Umatilla in the early 1970s. Bill worked for Hill Meat Co., and Follets Meats until he changed careers. He then worked for what is now named Areva Inc. in Richland, Wash.,, retiring in 1994. After retirement he and Phyllis traveled extensively until she became disabled. Bill lovingly cared for Phyllis the last 10 years of her life. Bill or “Willie” as many affectionately knew him, was always such a positive person, happy, and hardworking. We were truly blessed to have him in our lives and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his stepdaughters: Beverly Gibson (Wally), Cindy Weise, and Susie Ponish (Joe); sister, Mary Ferrence; 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; brothers, George and Steve; and sisters, Ann and Midge.
Bill’s family wishes to express their heart-filled thanks to Eileen McElligott, FNP and all at Regency Rehab for their compassionate care of our dear Bill during the last months of his life.
Recitation of the holy rosary will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 at 9:15 a.m. at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church in Hermiston. Funeral mass will follow at 10 a.m. Burial with military honors will follow at the Hermiston Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Martha’s House (Family Homeless Shelter) at 305 S.E. Fourth St., Hermiston, Ore., 97838.
Please sign the condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
