William "Bill" Pilconis, 64, Pottsville, has suddenly and tragically passed away January 11, 2014.

Born on May 3, 1949 to the late Joseph and Helen Pilconis (Meluskey), he grew up in Mahanoy City.

He attended Mahanoy Area and Panther Valley high schools and was an exceptional football player under the guidance of his father, Coach Joe Pilconis. He also excelled at basketball and track, an undefeated state champion in the 120 yard high hurdles during his senior year. He continued his football career and education at the University of Pittsburgh, and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1971.

He was the husband of Joanne Pilconis (Flannery) and father of Ryan, Steven, and Lauren. He was a passionate father and husband and made spending time with his family his top priority. He utilized his athletic experience to tutor his sons from youth sports all the way to collegiate football at Harvard University, becoming a coach and mentor to many both on and off the field.

He spent his professional career in the insurance industry.

Surviving, in addition to his wife and three children, are brother John Pilconis, husband of Juliet; mother in law Helen Flannery; step mother Erma Haas; sister in law Maureen Tracy; and one niece and two nephews.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Saint Patrick's Church in Pottsville, with visitation an hour prior to the service.

Due to his lifelong love of animals, donations in his name may be sent to Hillside S.P.C.A. Inc, P.O. Box 233, Pottsville, PA 17901.