William Dean Grossenbacher

William “Bill” Grossenbacher passed away in his sleep on December 17, 2020, after a long illness. Bill was a true public servant. He served in the Texas National Guard and began working at the Texas Employment (now Workforce) Commission in 1966 and retired as Executive Director in 1996. He continued to consult on workforce training in the private sector with Lockheed-Martin, ACS, and Arbor E&T, but was most proud of his work as Administrator of TEC. While he surely didn’t talk about it much or show it, he cherished his TEC family.

He was also very fond of cold beer and vodka martinis (the cheaper the alcohol the better), Marlboro cigarettes, oldies music (especially doo-wop), Texas beaches (Port A was his favorite), and sunsets at the family lake house in Highland Haven (celebrated by setting off the miniature cannon, Mallory).

But the thing he loved most in life was his family. He and Marilyn met while working at TEC in San Antonio when she gave him a ride to an IAPES convention. They were married in 1969 and extended their family, first with Jennifer, and Derek soon followed. The family moved to Austin in 1976 and put down strong roots at the house on Shady Oaks Drive that served as a hub for all the kids in the neighborhood and is still filled with lots of laughter and love, especially when the grandkids visit.

Bill is survived by his patient and loving wife, Marilyn; his daughter, Jennifer Jones and husband Marshall; his son, Derek Grossenbacher and wife Elisha and grandchildren, Cole and Brooklyn. He is also survived by his sister, Laurie Cavin and cousin, Pat Byrom and husband Jim. The family will hold a private celebration at a later date to raise a glass or two, share stories, and honor Bill’s admirable life. Please visit DignityMemorial.com to offer condolences. Bill also loved many canine companions over the years and donations can be made in his name to your favorite animal charity or shelter.