William S. Kirschner

He was born April 3, 1933 to Sidney and Elizabeth Kirschner in Cleveland, OH. A graduate of East High School Class of 1951, he entered the Army and joined the 82nd Airborne in 1953. Shortly after being discharged, he joined the plumbers Union Local 55 where he was a member for over 40 years. He married Carol Ann Merriman in 1956 and they spent the last 65 years together. Bill is survived by his wife Carol; five children - Sandy, Bill (Leslie), Suzanne Barnes (Jeff), Michael, and Kelly (Jessica); seven grandchildren – Ryan (Ariane), Bill (Bonnie), Corey Barnes (Holly), Alex Barnes (Lisa), Max (Mackenzie), Brian Barnes, and Dane; and five great-grandchildren – Avalon, Ryan, Olivia Barnes, Watson, and Jason Barnes. A voracious traveler, he and Carol visited over 100 countries together collecting memories and souvenirs along the way. Bill loved all Cleveland sports teams, but Notre Dame Football always held a special place in his heart. He and Carol loved attending Fighting Irish games in South Bend. His grandchildren called him “Pa” and he was a fixture at family events and holidays. He was a great man and will always be remembered. Services will be announced at a later date.