During his grammar and high school years, he attended parochial schools in New York City and spent his summers at his family home in Nassau, Bahamas. Afterwards, he completed his B.S. degree from St. Michael’s College in Burlington, Vermont and his M.S. from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. From there, he taught English Literature as a faculty member at the University of Southern Indiana.
William’s most cherished moments were those spent with the love of his life, Helen, and his special friends and family. He especially enjoyed travelling and taking “postcard” quality photographs. He was a very humble gentleman who put others first and genuinely appreciated the kindnesses and sense of humor of those around him.
A lifelong learner, William enjoyed reading and acquiring knowledge on a myriad of subjects. He spent countless hours perusing the book and magazine sections of the public libraries and Barnes and Nobles.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Helene Sands; his wife of 60 years, Helen; and his son, Bill.
William is survived by his daughters, Dr. Kathy Clark (Dr. William Clark), Paula Koch (George); grandchildren, Caroline and William Clark, Michael and Lauren Koch; nephew, Robert Sands (Debra); and niece, Beverly Hilton (Rodney).
The family would like to thank the medical staff at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, IN and the caring staff at St. Vincent’s Hospice Center in Indianapolis, IN for their compassionate care of our father.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am Monday, April 30, 2018 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church officiated by Fr. Bernie Etienne, with burial in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Friends may visit from 1:00 to 4:00 on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Alexander East Chapel, 2115 Lincoln Avenue, where a Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00pm. Friends may also visit on Monday from 9:00am until service time at the church.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Bill and Helen Sands Business Communication Award Scholarship c/o USI Foundation, 8600 University Blvd, Evansville, IN 47712, www.usi.edu/onlinegiving.
Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.
