William C. Sisco

William C. Sisco, 83, of Homer, Michigan passed away Thursday, November 28, 2024 at ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital. He was born on September 8, 1941 in Toledo, Ohio to Carl W. and Ruth G. Sisco. Bill married Jean Hayes on June 5, 1965, who passed away last year.

Bill is survived by one sister, Janet (Tom) Kingsley, one brother, Chuck Sisco, one daughter, Jennifer Sisco (Joel Sanderson) of Quincy, and one grandchild Felix Sanderson, and two nieces Joanie (Steve) Cherry and Karen Karl, and grand-nieces and a grand-nephew.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

A man of remarkable stories and diverse experiences, Bill’s life was a testimony of his passions, work ethic, and love for the people he encountered along the way.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, Bill developed a deep appreciation for the region's history, which remained with him throughout his life. He began his academic journey at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, studying in their Tech Program, before earning his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toledo. It was during Bill’s return to the Toledo area that he met the love of his life, Jean Hayes, a bright and spirited student at Bowling Green State University. From the moment they met, it was clear that they were meant to be together. They married in 1965, and for 58 years, they were not just partners, but best friends—constantly supporting, encouraging, and caring for one another through every joy and challenge that life brought. In 1970, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Jennifer. Bill and Jean fully embraced Jennifer’s deep passion for animals, creating a safe haven with the barn and pastures on their property in Homer.

Bill’s career was defined by a love for engineering and the mechanical world. He worked for Goodyear, Bendix, and Simpson Industries, where he retired after decades of dedicated service. Throughout his career, Bill made lasting contributions to the world of racing and automotive engineering, working with legends such as The Elliotts, Junior Johnson, Grumpy Jenkins, and others at Roush Racing. His work led to the development of several mechanical engineering patents. Bill’s career also saw him traveling internationally to England, Ireland, Mexico, and Japan on business trips that enriched his life with unique experiences, and provided once-in-a-lifetime trips for he and his wife Jean.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Bill was an avid enthusiast of all things mechanical. He was a member of the Sports Car Club of America, and his love for racing extended beyond work to racing motorcycles at Daytona Speed Weeks. He exhibited model boats at shows, including Clayton events, and took great joy in restoring vehicles—often sharing that passion by helping his niece restore her classic car.

Bill also had a heart for animals, particularly Border Collies. He generously fostered dogs through rescue groups, providing them with a loving home until they found their forever families, sometimes his. He was also a dedicated volunteer at the Gilmore Museum in Hickory Corners, MI, where he contributed his time to the Garage Works program and enjoyed the camaraderie of car cruises.

Throughout his life, Bill lived in various cities, including Toledo, Pittsburgh, Maumee, Akron, St. Marys, South Bend, Coldwater, and Homer, forming lasting connections wherever he went. He cherished the friendships he built and loved sharing the stories of his experiences. His deep sense of community, his eagerness to lend a hand, and his unwavering curiosity about the world around him will be missed by all who knew him.

In the last year or so, Bill’s health worsened and he passed from natural causes.

Bill’s legacy will live on through the countless stories, friendships, and contributions he made in his lifetime. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Great Lakes Border Collie Rescue in Eagle, MI or Erin’s Angels Rescue in Quincy, MI.

To view this obituary or send condolences, please visit kempffuneralhome.com