Bill Burian, 85, of Washington, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, June 18, 2026.

He was born June 2, 1941 in Granite City, Illinois to the late William F. and Rose M. (Schlemmer) Burian.

He is survived by the love of his life, Barbara A. Pape, whom he married in Springfield, Illinois on February 17, 1962.

Also surviving are their three children, Susan (Bill) Bieneman, William "Todd" (Erika) Burian, Amy (Tom) Laures; their five grandchildren, Jason Bieneman, Alexandra (Zach) Burian-Bean, Adam Bieneman, Matthew Laures, and Allison Laures.

Bill spent his early years as a volunteer fireman in Edwardsville, IL. He worked as District Sales Manager at National Cash Register for 28 years, then spent the last 10 years of his career at UARCO before his retirement.

Bill enjoyed many hobbies including fishing, golf, dart ball, reading, and working on puzzles. He was also a man of many talents, including learning how to fly a plane and singing as a member of the Peoria Civic Opera. He never met a stranger and was a master joke-teller, known for having a joke for every occasion. He knew how to make everyone around him feel important and loved.

His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family, whether it was traveling to some of his favorite places around the country or showing his kids and grandkids how it's done in a game of bags or croquet in his backyard. Knowing Bill was to know how proud he was of his family. He absolutely loved being a dad and papa.

Above all, he devoted each day to his best friend and greatest love, his wife, Barb. She was his companion through life, and he affectionately referred to her as his "rock", staying by his side until the very end. Growing up together in Edwardsville, and then raising their family in Washington, their greatest accomplishment was the love they shared together.

Bill was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington and the Knights of Columbus, where he volunteered his time in many ways.

Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.  Inurnment will be at Glendale Cemetery in Washington at a later date.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.