William "Bill" Louis Bilka

William (Bill) Louis Bilka, 95, of Palm Harbor, FL passed away on December 4, 2020 due to complications from COVID-19.

Born in the Troy Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA, he graduated from Allegheny High School and attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Business. He was a loyal Panther fan and the taste of victory was sweetest whenever Pitt beat Penn State. He spent his career working for the Duquesne Light Company.

Bill’s real love was his family. His support was unending. He and his wife of 68 years, Loisanne Pfeifer, raised two daughters, Betsy and Bonnie who adore him. They have fond memories of him enjoying gardening, presiding over family meals, constructing a train village every year at Christmas, and trying his hand at hobbies such as wine-making. He also participated in Shriner activities and events. He was a Past Master of Loyalty Lodge.

Throughout his life, Bill was an active church member, leading youth groups and serving as the Clerk of Session in three different presbyterian churches. Most recently, he was a member of Northwood Presbytrian Church in Clearwater where he wore his red socks every Sunday.

Bill is survived by Loisanne Pfeifer Bilka, who was the light of his life, his two daughters, Betsy (David) Balmer and Bonnie (Hugh) Gorman, and his two grandchildren, Melissa (James) Brown, and James Balmer. A great grandson is on the way.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held in the future. Donations in his memory can be made to the Northwood Presbytrian Church Food Pantry, 2875 FL-580, Clearwater, FL 3376.

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