June 20, 1938 - July 19, 2023
Service
Saturday, July 22 at 10 am at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church
Burial
St. Joseph Cemetery
In Loving Memory of William S. Tompos
William S. Tompos, a man of unwavering dedication as well as abundant joy and love, journeyed to his eternal home on July 19, 2023, surrounded by the love of his wife and son. Born on June 20, 1938, to Bertha and Stephen Tompos, Bill's life was marked by compassion, service, and a zest for living that inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bill was predeceased by his beloved brother, Bob, and sister-in-law, Beatrice Tompos, as well as his cherished infant daughter, Kimberly. Their memories remained forever etched in his heart. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 60 years, Sheila, who stood by his side through every triumph and challenge. Their union was blessed with a son, Stephen, and a daughter-in-law, Lori. Bill's pride and joy are his granddaughters, Laurel, Stephenie, and Lily, who brought immeasurable happiness to his life.
A graduate of Catholic Central High School in Steubenville, OH, Bill's pursuit of knowledge led him to The Ohio State University, where he spent two transformative years. Following his adventurous spirit, he joined the U.S. Army, where he served as a company clerk for the 529th Military Police Company in Heidelberg, Germany, fulfilling his duty to his country with honor and distinction.
Upon returning home, Bill graduated from Bliss Business College in Columbus, where he met and married Sheila, and began his career as an accountant at Bob Evans Farms. He excelled and soon found himself pioneering the first out-of-state restaurant sales and finance operation in Hillsdale (That State Up North). Later, he and Sheila embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Akron, OH, where Bill's expertise was sought after as an accounting manager for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
Bill's entrepreneurial spirit called him to open Helen Hutchley's Ice Cream and Candy shoppe in Whitehall, OH, followed six years later by purchasing the adjacent Convenience Food Mart. As Owner/Operators, they spent two decades dedicated to their businesses while actively serving the community. Bill's heart for public service led him to become a Whitehall City Councilman, where he served 14 years, and completed his service as interim Mayor of Whitehall.
Ever eager to learn and grow, Bill then earned his B.S. degree in Accounting from Dominican College in Columbus, OH, before venturing into government service. He rose through the ranks, working diligently in the Franklin County Finance Department and the Ohio Department of Transportation, finally culminating in his role as CFO of the Ohio Rail Commission, where he gracefully retired.
Even in retirement, Bill's passion for service endured. After his inspiring leadership in the Whitehall/Bexley Rotary Club, he later took up the mantle as President of the Rotary Club of Westerville and served on many committees and in leadership roles to include the annual Westerville July 4th Parade. His commitment to the community extended to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Westerville, OH, where he volunteered his time in support of the Westerville Area Resource Ministry (WARM).
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bill's life at his Mass of Christian Burial, to be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church located at 313 N State Street, Westerville, OH 43082, on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Following the service, a private family burial will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Lockbourne, OH, where Bill will rest in eternal peace.
As we bid farewell to a man whose life was filled with love, laughter, and a spirit of giving, let us remember William S. Tompos with joy and gratitude for the profound impact he had on all of our lives. May his memory be a guiding light for us all, forever, and ever.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in memory of Bill to the organizations that held a special place in his heart:
St. Vincent de Paul - continuing his legacy of compassion and aid to those in need.
* Donations can be made online by following this link https://www.wesharegiving.org/app/giving/WeShare-3362?tab=home
or via check made payable to SVDP and mailed to SVDP, St. Paul Catholic Church, 313 N. State Street, Westerville, Ohio 43082
Westerville Area Resource Ministry (WARM) - supporting the community's vulnerable and underserved.
* Donations can be made online by following this link https://www.warmwesterville.org/donate
Rotary Club of Westerville - nurturing the spirit of service and fellowship that meant so much to him.
* Donations can be made by following this link https://checkout.square.site/merchant/VSJMF6DVFNZV9/checkout/3A24CO3PRKVB2I7BYUBTLZKJ
to the Westerville Rotary Foundation - William Tompos Memorial Fund
Condolences
Kris Koepcke - Jul 14, 2024
I served with Bill in the US Army in Germany…fine soldier…good man….
John powell - Jul 22, 2023
To put it simply, Bill was the “ Best” Man I have ever known…humble, smart, unselfish, helpful, and dedicated to helping other… we will miss his smile and attitude… Shelia this is so well written!
Michael & Fernanda Heyeck - Jul 21, 2023
A great man with a spot in Heaven reserved as quiet servant to all. Our hearts and prayers go to Sheila and the entire Tompos Family.
Dave Collinsworth - Jul 21, 2023
Sheila, we were truly saddened to learn of Bill's passing. He has been a great blessing to this community , to our Rotary family, and our parish family at St. Pauls. May perpetual light shine upon him and the consolation of the Holy Spirit be with you and your family.
george scott - Jul 21, 2023
It\'s not goodbye it\'s till we meet again. Rest In Peace
MARIANNE WOODGERD - Jul 21, 2023
i wish i could say something besides i/m so sorry he will be missed by many love to all tghe family woody
Bob Gibson - Jul 21, 2023
Sheila, so sorry for your loss. As you know Bill was such a wonderful person and always had a smile and a kind word for everyone he came across. he will be dearly missed.
Don Middendorf - Jul 21, 2023
As a fellow Vincentian, I will always remember Bill as our guiding light behind the assistance we gave to St James the Less Food Pantry. He gave a lot to St Paul Church and will be greatly missed.
Kris Koepcke - Jul 21, 2023
I knew Bill in the service and am not a bit surprised at his successful life….
David & Andrea Crago - Jul 21, 2023
We are privileged and honored to know both Tom and Sheila .. true servants of our Lord. He will be missed by all.
Vinny Herwig - Jul 21, 2023
A friend indeed! You will be missed by many.
Dave Daily - Jul 21, 2023
No doubt Uncle Bill heard those words "well done good and faithful servant. Enter in to my peace."
Cheryl Vander Linden - Jul 20, 2023
Beautiful write-up of a very special man who was dedicated to service and his family. I know your hearts are heavy. May all the happy memories made bring you all some comfort during this sad time. Sheila, Steve and family condolences and blessings as you mourn the loss of your beloved who meant so much to so many.
Barbara Flaherty - Jul 20, 2023
Sheila: Bill was caring, giving, involved and a source of inspiration and joy to Jim and me. His support of Jim’s faith journey to Catholicism and our marriage had a profound impact on our lives. We love him and will him dearly. May you find peace in the beautiful memories you made over the years and in God’s promise of salvation.