William "Bill" Nicholas Avdellas

William “Bill,” was born on July 3rd, 1937, in Canonsburg, PA, to Nicholas and Stella Avdellas. Their strong foundation enabled Bill’s life to paint a living and inspiring 85-year portrait of hard work, dedication, and happiness. His canvas includes his 85th birthday, where just a couple weeks ago, Bill was hugging, kissing, and singing with his 8 grandchildren, 3 children and his cherished loved ones.

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Bill had a precocious childhood in Aliquippa. Bill was shaped by his loving immediate and extended families and deep ties to the Greek Orthodox Church and community. After high school, he served in the Pennsylvania National Guard while attending Pennsylvania State University.

Bill was a career, federal civil servant within the US Department of Navy for over 30 years, where he provided logistics and management support to the US Fleet. He took great interest in the careers and aspirations of others, serving many as a mentor and role model.

Bill was exceptionally dedicated to Amelia, his wife of 62 years. Amelia was beautiful and strong. Their marriage was absolutely precious and her loss just a few weeks ago distressed him greatly, but he kept strength through fellowship and prayer.

Life overall made Bill happy and he made others smile and feel comfortable like few others could. He was a true home body and tinkerer around the house, cars, and yard, always chipping away at an ever changing “honey-do” list, which he attended to with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

Bill cherished time with his 8 grandchildren. He beamed brightest when his home was filled with their laughter. A true kid at heart, he made the time to both help create and tap into their worlds. He would heartily participate in paint ball birthday parties and water balloon fights in his backyard with the family. No one was safe from Papou’s true aim.

The dementia that plagued Bill for some time presented long-term, pernicious challenges. He remained a giver to the end, providing one final gift during his last season on Earth – precious time and companionship with his children, Nicholas, Mary and Amy. Nick often expressed that during this time together his Dad continued to show thankfulness, humility, pride, and humor. May his lessons live on forever. May God bless him and may his memory be eternal.

Services will be held on July 23rd, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Viewing will be held at 10:30, with service at 11:30. The internment will follow at Rolling Green Cemetery in Camp Hill.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neillcamphill.com for the Avdellas family.