William J. Kilar 1944-2025

William was born on March 10, 1944, in Sharon, Pa., a son to Joseph P. and Mary A. Straka Kilar.

He graduated from Brookfield High School in 1962 where he was affectionately known as “Wild Bill.” During his school days, he played football and baseball. His dream was to become a high school history teacher. He had also enlisted as a U.S. Air Force Reservist.

However, Bill found work as a tow motor operator and a plant security officer for Packard Electric for over 44 years before retiring.

He loved cutting grass, growing and canning hot peppers, as well as collecting and showing antique tractors. Bill was a fixture at most every antique tractor show throughout the valley and beyond. When his daughters were young, he was the greatest “Horse Show Dad.” Furthermore, he had a soft spot for animals and he never turned away a stray.

In his spare time, he enjoyed stopping at his daughter’s veterinary office with cookies from Mr. D’s. He would always help himself to a “free” pen while there. In fact, Bill took great pride in helping himself to free stuff anywhere he went. He collected bags, hats, T-shirts, coffee mugs, umbrellas, etc. from fairs, tractor shows, car dealerships, and even his Kilar cousins.

Bill was loyal, funny, stubborn and direct. You always knew where you stood with him. He had the unique ability to weave a story and leave you questioning if it was true or not. Many of the craziest stories were actually true. He was genuine and will be truly missed.

Mourning his loss are his daughters, Tracey (Thomas Jr.) Obermiyer of Sharon, Pa., and Kelley Kilar (Wayne Shay) of Hubbard; grandchildren, Emily and Dakota Obermiyer, and Hailey Shay; as well as his longtime companion, Janice Jubak.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Morgan Kilar, whom he married April 19, 1969; she passed Jan. 1, 1992; and his sister, Elaine Kilar.

A time of gathering to honor Bill will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in the home of Briceland Funeral Service, 379 State Route 7 SE, Brookfield, OH 44403.

Additionally, from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, also in the funeral home, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m.

He will be laid to rest next to his wife in Brookfield Township Cemetery.

As suggested by his family, memorial contributions can be made to the Healthy Hearts & Paws, c/o the funeral home at: P.O. Box 551, Brookfield.

Expressions of sympathy may be left for his family at: www.bricelandfuneralservice.com.

Coordination of this tribute for Mr. Kilar was presented by Daniel Briceland, Owner & Director. (330-509-3135)

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