William J Wis

William J. Wis, 88, of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 9, 2026.

Born October 3, 1937, Bill was the eldest of five children born to Clement and Dorothy Wis. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Maureen and one sibling who passed away in infancy.

Bill divided his life between the Chicago area, where he spent his early years, and St. Petersburg, Florida where he remained until his death. After graduating from Weber High School in 1954, he spent two years studying pre-med at Navy Pier in Chicago. He went on to earn his degree from the University of Illinois in 1960.

A lifelong love of music shaped Bill's career and touched countless lives. His years with the Cavaliers and Blessed Sacrament Golden Knights Drum and Bugle Corps inspired him to become a dedicated elementary, middle, and high school band director. After retiring from education, Bill worked in yacht sales before he and his wife fulfilled a new dream by opening Bono's Family Restaurant in Largo, Florida. Together, they welcomed guests and built lasting friendships until retiring in 2015.

Sailing was one of Bill's greatest passions. In his younger years, he competed alongside his wife and son in the Lightning Class Association. Later, he continued to enjoy sailing the waters of Tampa Bay with family and friends. Bill was also an enthusiastic sports fan who spent many weekends cheering on the Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Illinois Fighting Illini.

Deeply devoted to his Catholic faith, Bill was a member of the Discalced Carmelite community. His faith, family, and friendships were central to his life.

Bill is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 66 years, Barbara; his children, Rita (Chuck), Lisa (Patrick), Melissa (Jason), and John (Susan); his grandchildren, Amber, Britney, Austin, Ryan, Gabriella, Matthew and Alexandria; his great-grandchildren, Lola, Georgia, Declan, Rhett, Blakley, and Murphy; his brothers, Bob (Terri) and Bud (Meg); and many extended family members and dear friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, August 22, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1900 Meadowood Street, Sarasota, Florida. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Clearwater, Florida.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Lexington and Bay Pointe Nursing Homes for their compassionate care and concern for Bill.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that Masses be offered for the repose of the soul of the deceased, or that memorial donations be made to Catholic Charities or Catholic Relief Services.