William John "Bill" Porter

William J. “Bill” Porter, age 83, of Plainfield, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born in Joliet and raised in Lockport, Bill made his home in Plainfield for the past 55 years. He was a retired pipefitter and welder and a proud 50-year member of Local 422/597. Bill was also an active member of the South Side Civic Club in Joliet.

He loved fishing and boating, especially during cherished trips to Green Lake with the Salbego family. He enjoyed traveling with his cousins, Pat and Judy Tierney, and sharing morning coffee with his McDonald’s crew. A lifelong fan of jazz music, Bill often had it playing while working in his garage. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family, friends, and a little dog named Zoey.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sharon (née Raspolich); his daughter, Cindy (Tom) Egizio; and his beloved granddaughter, Lilliana Egizio. He is also survived by his sister, Janet (Marvin) Missig; brother-in-law, Ron Raspolich; nephews Paul (Janine) Raspolich and David (Lori) Missig; nieces Michelle (Tom) Seneker, Marie (Mark) Carlson, and Kristin (Kai-wei) Chung; as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and John Porter; his mother- and father-in-law, Sophie and John Raspolich; and his sister-in-law, Kathy Raspolich.

Bill will be remembered for his warm spirit, sense of humor, and the love and support he gave so freely to those around him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Lakewood Nursing and Rehab Facility and to Lightways Hospice for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers donations to Joliet Area Hospice or Lightways in William’s name may be made.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held with visitation to be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 600 Brook Forest Ave, Shorewood, IL Burial will be held privately.