The family of William F. Marszalek is saddened to announce that he left this world on July 14, 2026.

William, or Bill as many knew him, was born on December 26, 1945 in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. He was the youngest child to the late Stanley and Martha Marszalek.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his bride of 40 years, Sue Ann Marszalek. He was also preceded in death by his sister Dorothy (age 3), his sister Helen and brother-in-law John Hwilka, his brother Stanley and his sister-in-law Dolores Marszalek, and his brother Daniel Marszalek.

Bill is survived by his two daughters and son-in-law, Juliann Marszalek and Jodi and Jeffrey Shimmel. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Antoinette Marszalek and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Through his journey of 80 years, he touched many lives with his faith, his compassion for humanity, and his intense love of music. He was an alter boy at St. Ignatius Catholic Church and was a part of the first graduating class of Canevin High School in 1963. He attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and then spent some time living in New York City and working for Gretsch Guitar Company.

His life back in Pittsburgh was spent in the local live music scene, as well as working for the Lomakin Music Store.
He was always willing to pull out his guitar and entertain friends and family. He used the name Bill Marshall professionally, and took great pride in his performances singing the National Anthem for Pirates, Steelers and Penguins games, as well as the Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta.

Later, he spent several years as the Secretary/Treasurer for the Pittsburgh chapter of the American Federation of Musicians and then retired from the City of Pittsburgh Real Estate Office.

Being in touch with his local community always came naturally for Bill. He served on the board of East Liberty Development, Inc., was active in the Peabody High School PTSA and the Peabody High School Band Parents, and was a proud Democrat who worked at the polling booths during elections. Each Christmas, he dressed as Santa Claus, bringing joy to local children at their homes and at community events. He was a generous friend to many and never thought twice about lending a hand to those in need.

He greatly enjoyed traveling to Canada, especially Montreal where he honeymooned with Sue. He also had the pleasure of visiting Finland, a land he long admired from afar. Black coffee was his drink of choice, and dogs were always his best friends. He rescued many faithful companions throughout his life.

While the world feels a bit dimmer without Bill in it, we will continue to carry him with us through the ways we celebrate life and show up for the people we love. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the SZAFRANSKI-EBERLEIN FUNERAL HOME, INC., where family and friends will be received on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 11am until time of Blessing Service at 12 noon at 101 Third St., Carnegie.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh in memory of William’s love for his furry friends.

www.szafranski-eberleinfuneralhome.com (412)276-1107