William “Bill” Wash, 70, of Pittston Twp., formerly of Harding, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2021 at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore after receiving daylong visits with his family. True to his strength and private nature, he passed right after his daughter left his bedside, to be reunited with his son, Chris, who was waiting to greet him in heaven.
Born August 20, 1950, he was the son of Henry and Blanche (Colley) Wash. He was a proud Penn State University graduate, where he earned a degree in chemical engineering. Prior to his retirement, he was employed at Schott Optical, Duryea.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Christopher Wash, and sister-in-law Katie Wash.
Surviving in addition to his fiancée Joanne Schrader, Pittston Twp., are his daughter Erica Wash and Fiancé Michael Hughes; stepdaughter Tracy Labrosky and husband John; daughter-in-law, Temple Wash; former wife, Joyce Rome; grandchildren Gabriel and Emma Wash, and William and Mariah Hughes; brothers Tom Wash and wife Laura, and Dave Wash; sister Debbie Wash; and several nieces and nephews.
Bill was an avid reader who tore through books faster than he could get them. He enjoyed his male bonding Canada fishing trips, and loved to golf. He could soak up the sun’s rays all day, sometimes withstanding the hot and humid summer weather way past what others would consider comfortable. Bill loved long car rides for sightseeing to scope out new places and good restaurants, and going out for dinner with family. He loved his dog, Lexie, referring
to her as “little girl”, and she adored her “poppy Bill”.
The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the wonderful and caring staff of Hospice of the Sacred Heart, who provided care and comfort to Bill in his final days and allowed him to pass with dignity. Prior to death, he was visited bedside by his closest family members who were able to say their goodbyes.
Arrangements are being handled by Kiesinger Funeral Services, Inc., 255 McAlpine St. Duryea. A small private gathering celebrating Bill’s life will be held at a future date organized by his loving daughter Erica.
Bill was my cousin. My father was Catherine Wash's brother. My father's name was Joseph Lock. I was saddened to see Bill's passing in the Penn Stater magazine. The last few times I saw Bill was at Penn State and then at Aunt Catherine's funeral. So many good memories of the Wash and Lock families. I want to express my condolences to his family.
Joseph Lock
Penn State Class of 73
I worked at Schott Glass also, and I remember Bill. He was always a nice guy with a smile for everyone. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.