William Kuzma, Jr., age 87, of O’Fallon, Ill., formerly of Pittsburgh, Penn., passed away Thursday morning, November 07, 2024, with his loved ones at his side. He was born December 25, 1936, to William Kuzma, Sr., and Bertha, nee Papeaka, Kuzma.
William was an Army Veteran, and served 11/28/1956 thru 11/21/1958.
After retiring from the Coal Industry, together with his wife Emily, whom he married on October 3, 1959, William founded Natural Enrichment Industries in Southern Illinois. They wanted to provide employment opportunities and support the US AID Feed the World Program. He traveled the world, participating in many Trade Mission Trips to Africa, Japan, Turkey and China in hopes of expanding his business globally. William was an active member of his community in O’Fallon for over 30 years serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals, and Police and Fire Pension Boards, just to name a few. The O’Fallon City Council issued a Proclamation declaring August 7, 2017, as “Bill Kuzma Day” in O’Fallon in honor of his stellar service to the citizens of O’Fallon. Bill donated to many charities and foundations. He was one of the founding members and board member for Nurses for Newborns – St Louis, Missouri.
William was dedicated to his work as well as his family, preparing a solid foundation for his family and their future. His wife Emily was his partner, confidant and Best Friend. His dedication to his family was evident as he strived to do what he thought was best for them.
Surviving are his son Bill (Mary Clark) Kuzma; daughter Maria (Mike) Arden; Grandchildren, Jake (Grayal), Heather (Todd), Jason (Deanna), Nicholas, Chris and Great-Grandchild Cayson. Bill is also survived by his sisters-in-law Gloria Kuzma and Lyuba Sepich; nephews Roger and Rodney (Tracy) Sepich and their children; niece Christine Kuzma and her children Danica and Mike; nephew Doug (Leslie) Kuzma and daughter Alina; and many Papeaka family members; Also surviving are his caregivers: Ann, Kathy, Tara, Linda, Kelly and Celia, who cared for him day and night with love and devotion.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Emily, and brother Robert Kuzma.
Donations may be made to St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 625 St. Nicholas Dr., O’Fallon, IL 62269. Online condolences may be offered at www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Private services will be held in O’Fallon, Ill., under the care of Wolfersberger Funeral Home, followed by services and final burial under the care of Fox Funeral Home, Saxonburg, Penn.
