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William Tyznik Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for William Tyznik
Sponsored by The Tyznik Family.
Linda Bird
April 30, 2025
Dr. Tyznik was an amazing teacher! I have multiple degrees and he was truly one of the best teachers I've ever had.
Kristina (Richards) Charron
March 31, 2016
Doing a random google on my former advisor and professor, I was sad to see this obituary. Dr. Tyznik was not only the best teacher, but a wonderful advisor and listener. He advocated for me while I was in school, and he wrote a letter of recommendation for me when I graduated.
I contacted him several times throughout the years, and he ALWAYS remembered me. He was thrilled to know I moved to his home state. To this day I still repeat stories he told, remember his classes fondly. And, if I recall, he LOVED to iron.
You were a rare and wonderful man. Thank you for your guidance and teachings.
Linda
March 23, 2016
I had Dr. Tyznik for a graduate level course during the summer of 1984. He was by far one of the best teachers I've ever had. He simultaneously challenged and encouraged each of the students in our class, and made each of us feel that we were super-important to him. He was such an enthusiastic teacher!! Although I just had him for the one course, I will always remember many things he said and how he challenged me. Years later I contacted him, and he still remembered me as one of the 'summer graduate class of 1984.' I am very sad to hear that he passed away, but please know that he had a TREMENDOUS legacy on so many of us. I will always have fond memories of Dr. Tyznik.
Richard Doarn
September 3, 2015
My undergrad advisor, friend and mentor. Remember sitting in his office for hours just talking. Best thing was the final at his house for Animal Science 630 - Ask me what happens to feed once a cow picks it up until it ends up out the other end - truly sadden by his passing, even after all these years
April 29, 2015
I remember taking his animal nutrition class in 1974. He as a great teacher! He reminded me of my Uncle Bill both in personality and appearance. I will never forget him! Tim Glaros
Zulfiqar Ali
May 6, 2014
It made me very sad to Learn that Dr Tyznik passed away. While coming from Pakistan to Ohio state university I attended first course at Ohio state that was conditional for me to have B grade. But I got A grade in that.
I was his student in 1990 in ruminant nutrition class. He did not only taught ruminant nutrition but philosophy of ruminant animal feeding and nutrition.
He was having so much knowledge about animal nutrition and was teaching us like story for children. I was always willing that I should have an other hour with him.
I also remember a great feast/dinner at his residence on final day of class.
He was a great teacher and excellent speaker and emotionally generous American professor with God given ability to convince logically.
I am sad today to learn that my favourite teacher and very fine human left us without substitute.
I will remember you Dr Tyznik.
I pray God bless you in next world as you were blessed in this world.
Amen
John Tyznik
March 22, 2014
Dad was a quiet man. Well, I know what you're thinking. He was never at a loss for words. My father could talk you ears off. He could talk until the cows came home. He was a master storyteller, and he had great stories to tell. They were so good, they were worth telling twice... or more. But what I mean by quiet is that we kids never heard him raise his voice. When we got caught, he would quietly correct us and that's all it took. Dad was a smart guy, and he was rightfully proud of all his accomplishments. But smart guys are a dime a dozen. Wise men are a rare commodity. Dad was a wise man. After classes, students would line up at his door, not to discuss grades or assignments, but to learn about life and examine their own lives. He always had a sympathetic ear and a kind word. And a story or two... or three. And then there's Bette. The apple of his eye. The sunshine of his life. She was no easy catch for dad. He had to struggle with her skiptical mother, her smart-allecky sister, Rita, and a cluster of protective sorority sisters. But when he finally won her heart, they were bound with hoops of steel. She was the love of his life, as everyone knows, but she was also his counselor and sage. When dad had a problem or a setback, he turned to Bette for support and advice, and she never failed him.
Eulogy, Saint Christopher Church, May 9, 2013.
John Tyznik
June 30, 2013
The most memorable final exam I ever took happened at a dinner party over thirty years ago. Dr. William Tyznik invited his Ruminant Nutrition class to his home for dinner and conversation. He believed that a student who truly understood the principles of feeding ruminants should be able to discuss them in a social setting.
Now this was a course that many who were gunning for admission into vet school took, so the competition was fierce. I often wondered what I was thinking enrolling in such a class. I was an ag econ/ag ed major, but quickly figured out that I preferred taking classes from professors who loved to teach. The art of learning critical thinking, analyzing and problem solving could be developed in any subject. But only the truly gifted professors really understood how to teach this. And Dr. Tyznik was special, the absolute best that Ohio State University had to offer.
And his dinner party/final exam turned out to be another learning experience. The students observed a world-renown expert outside of the classroom and saw that he was also a devoted husband with an incredible wife, Bette. That night, I met one of his daughters and discovered that he enjoyed engaging his children in animated discussions about current events and social issues. He also had a dog that threw up on the living room carpet. Perhaps the canine was not amused at the students invading his territory or maybe a nutrition student indulged his begging a little too much. At any rate, the mishap didn't faze Dr. Tyznik, and the coversation continued.
Some 30 years later, I still recall how some of the uber-smart pre-vet students had difficulty talking coherently and were sometimes incorrect in their responses. Rote memorization and use of big words did not work in this setting. We were all so young then; I often wonder how others recall this night. I remember leaving there relieved but very impressed with the entire Tyznik household. Success was clearly about more than prominence in your chosen career.
Academic achievements came early and often to Dr. Tyznik. A 1944 high school graduate at the age of 17, he left the family dairy farm in Thorp, Wisconsin and enrolled at the University of Wisconsin. He was awarded his B.S. in 1948, his M.S. in 1949, and a Ph.D. in 1951, at the age of 24. That same year, he joined the Ohio State University. Three years later, in 1954, he was named the first "Professor of the Year." Dr. Tyznik became a full professor of Animal Science in 1959. He received Distinguished Teaching Awards in 1970 and 1986.
Dr. Tyznik was famous for memorizing the names of his students in every class every quarter. And he remembered them years later. I'll never forget watching him call on students by name. I had law professors that couldn't master that task with a detailed seating chart in front of them.
He loved to pose questions in class. A favorite - what is the most essential nutrient or nutrients for livestock? The answer - the one or ones that are missing in their diet.
He was also well known for having more advisees than any other professor would ever contemplate dealing with. When the door to his office was open, it meant that students were welcome to stop by for his assistance. Dr Tyznik had a rare combination of brilliance and common sense. And he was delightful to listen to because of the life experiences he could draw from while providing guidance.
Dr Tyznik defied the old addage that "those who can't, teach." While excelling at teaching and research, he was also an astute businessman and entrepreneur. He founded Tizwhiz horse feeds. He formulated Cycle dog food. And he invented Frosty Paws frozen treats for dogs.
Dr. Tyznik once told me that he never worked a day in his life, because work meant doing something that you had to that you didn't enjoy. And he said he loved every minute he was teaching, researching, advising, creating, formulating and inventing.
For 41 years, Dr. Tyznik brought a dedication and a passion to his faculty position at Ohio State that touched an immeasurable number of lives. I know my experience at OSU was profoundly richer because I elected to take his courses. Enrolling in his nutrition classes were some of the best choices I have ever made. I retained enough nutrition knowledge to irritate the feed and fairy dust salesmen that frequent our farm. Thanks to Dr. Tyznik, however, I incorporate critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills daily. Morever, I had the opportunity at a young age to see how a true professional lived his life.
Dr. Tyznik passed away on Friday, May 3, 2013 from an aortic aneurysm shortly after his 86th birthday. Bette, his beloved wife of 62 years, his older brother, his five children, seventeen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren survive him. My sincere sympathy to his family.
Leisa Boley Hellwarth, 6/10/13
(gratefully transcribed by Dr. Tyznik's son, John)
Steve Morgan
June 25, 2013
Just read Dr. Tyznik's obituary in HOOF BEATS. He was my advisor at OSU.
He always had time for all his students, myself included.
Condolences to his family.
Jo Lee
June 17, 2013
Mr. Tyznik was my advisor at OSU and touched the lives of many. My sincere condolences.
Wendy Michel
June 7, 2013
My sincere sympathy to the Tyznik family. I knew Bill from the OSU bowling league (Drake Union to Sawmill Lanes) He was the kindest and most loving person. I will especially miss his strong hugs and laughter. Thoughts, prayers and peace.
James Lowery
June 3, 2013
Dr. Bill Tyznik was my college advisor from 1961-65. His door was always open not only to me, but every student in need of consultation, advise or anything you needed to talk about. What a great person he was! My wife Kathy and I will always cherish the recent times we spent with "Bill" and his wife Bette at a local Columbus restaurant talking about the Buckeyes games of the day. He will surely be missed!! God Bless Dr. Tyznik and his family.
Hope Needles
May 15, 2013
Just heard about Mr.Tyznik, So sorry for your loss, My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I will miss speaking with him ,he was a client where I work and have spoken to Mr.Tyznik since I began work in 1999 at Buckeye Landscape . He will be deeply missed.
Charlie Kerber
May 10, 2013
John, Jude, and family,
Please accept my condolences for your loss.
May 10, 2013
Patty..Father told me your father passed.......so sorry for your loss. Would be great to hear from you.
[email protected] Bob and Cindy Albright
May 9, 2013
My sympathy to the Tzynik family. I bowl in the OSU faculty/staff league, which Bill was a member for 50 years thru the 2011-12 season. What a great man! He will be missed.
Alan LaForrest
May 9, 2013
To the Tyznik family: I am sorry for your loss. I met Bill on numerous occasions and enjoyed talking to him.
Tom Price
May 9, 2013
A great thinker, teacher and friend. A special person in many, many ways.
Jonathan Goodson
May 8, 2013
Dr. Tyznik was my graduate school advisor. He made many, many things in my life possible.
With out question, Dr, Tyznik was the smartest person I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, bar none. He had the ability to catch onto ideas in an amazingly rapid fashion. i was his TA for a few years andit was a joy working for him.
Thanks for everything Dr. Tyznik!
Tom & Vicki Palmer
May 8, 2013
Vicki and I had the privilege of being Bill and Bette's neighbors for a few years, the BEST neighbors we have ever been lucky enough to enjoy. Bill was always a bright light of the day, a delight to talk with,a first class man for sure. We have been gone from Columbus for many years, but remember Bill's smile and greeting like we saw him yesterday. Our sympathies and prayers for you Bette and all the family.
Roger Howard
May 8, 2013
I was a student of Dr. Tyznik's in the early '60s. Without Dr. Tyznik's help and personal interest, I would not have graduated from The Ohio State University's College of Agriculture. He cared more for students than any instructor I had during my college years. I am now a retired public school teacher, and I will never forget the love and care Dr. Tyznik showed me. May God bless you all. Roger Howard - OSU Class of '64
JoAnn Harner Pfeiffer
May 8, 2013
I had Dr. Tyznik in class in 1991. He was amazing! I ran into him 10 years ago at Equine Affaire, surprised that he remembered me. As a high school ag teacher, I only hope, that on just some days, my teaching comes close to being as good as what his was. I am truly saddened to hear of your loss.
Charles Amicon Jr
May 8, 2013
To Bette, and All the Tyznik Family:
Please know that Bill is in my thoughts & prayers.
He was a warm, caring, genuine
person, who I had the privilege to know.
God Bless you all.
Helen Cline & Family
May 8, 2013
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing! It was just 11 months ago that we lost our Dad, Jack. What times the two of them had together!! Will keep you all in our prayers!
Ruthanne James
May 8, 2013
Years ago my parents belonged to St Christopher's parish and I attended St. Christopher Elementary with the Tyznik children When my father became ill, Mr. and Mrs. Tyznik would bring communion to him every Sunday After my Dad had passed, they would continue to bring communion to my mother My Mom always gave this wonderful couple at Christmas time a box of Italian cookies she made called pizzelles After I lost Mom, I tried to keep the tradition going I will never forget when Mr. Tyznik told me, with his wonderful smile, that my batch of cookies were delicious and my Mom would be very proud He had no idea how much his kind remarks meant to me God Bless you Mrs. Tyznik and your entire family Ruthanne Tocci James
Ken & Shirley Doolittle
May 8, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to Bette & all the family.
May 8, 2013
Sending loving thoughts and memories to all the Tyzniks. I remember his big smile and twinkling eyes.So sorry for your loss. Much love, Amy (Heffernan) Bruggeman
May 8, 2013
"Wild Bill" as we affectionately called him now and then was the absolutely best yteacher I ever had. I still remember the ONLY question I missed on one of his famous 10-point quizzes! I am saddened beyond words to learn of his passing. God Bless all
who knew and loved him. Dean Gordin, B. Sc. 1957, M. Sc. 1959. THE Ohio State University.
Brian Cavanaugh
May 8, 2013
My condolences to the entire Tyznik family. What always amazed me was how smart he was, but how down to earth he acted, truly an exceptional man who will be missed by many. Best wishes to all.
Sue and Phil Capretta
May 8, 2013
Thoughts and prayers for your whole family. He certainly made an impact and will be missed by many.
Roger & Pat Himes
May 8, 2013
I was on the 4-H Foundation Board with Bill for a couple of years. I once asked him to tell me about himself and he regaled me with his entire life story, which I thoroughly enjoyed! Meager beginnings, farm life and mishaps, learning, teaching and developing products to enhance animnal life. What a great man. Everyone should accomplish one half as much as Bill did in his lifetime! His presence in and around Ohio 4-H will be greatly missed.
Roger Himes
Sherry Queen
May 8, 2013
Dr. Tyznik was a great teacher who really cared about his students. He was instrumental in my college career and my becoming a Veterinarian. He will be missed.
Summer Fisk
May 8, 2013
I have always loved Bette and Bill. Bill will be greatly missed. Wish we could be there to hug you all. Sending thoughts of love to you from Amman, Jordan.
ron ioia
May 7, 2013
i will always remember him as a man who always spoke to everyone.dale carnagie once said "the real reward in life ,are those great people that you meet,he was one of those great people.i will miss seeing him.may the good lord keep him in his fold.
May 7, 2013
Betty and Family, Have known Bill for almost 60 years; he will always be well remembered as a great teacher, dedicated and highly respected by his students. Charles Parker
Kathy Meyers
May 7, 2013
Our sincerest sympathies to you Aunt Bette and family! Uncle Bill was a wonderful, fun, intelligent man and we loved him dearly. He will be missed. but never forgotten.
Peter Spike
May 7, 2013
Our sympathies to Bette and the whole family. We always enjoyed our association with Bill at faculty gatherings. Pete and Jean Spike
Naomi DeCapua-Stanley
May 7, 2013
My sincere sympathy to Bette and the whole Tyznik family. I got to know Bill and Bette and some St. Christopher functions...very nice and happy people. What a loss to our parish. May Bill rest in God's peace and may God's angels comfort Bette, his family and many friends.
Karleigh Spahr
May 7, 2013
Saying it was a pleasure working with and learning from Dr. Tyznik, while at Tizwhiz, is an understatement. He was one of the most amazing people I have ever met. He will be so missed, but I hope your family can find some peace thinking of the many, many lives he touched. I'm praying for your healing.
Marilyn Howard
May 7, 2013
I was stunned to hear of the death of Dr. Tyznik. What a lovely man he was! I will always remember his kindness, funny stories, good advice, quick wit and warm laughter. He wore his love for Mrs. Tyznik on his sleeve; I often told my late fiance that I hoped we'd be as happily married as Betty and Bill. He adored his children and grandchildren. He loved life and it showed. I know the gates of Heaven have been thrown wide open for him. My mother, sister and I send our love and condolences to his family, especially Patti and Mrs. Tyznik.
Sarah Simcox
May 6, 2013
Bill you will always be remembered. What a great Man I had the honor of knowing.
May 6, 2013
To The Tyznik Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Mr. Tyznik. I went to High School with John and Jude. May God Bless you and give you strength now and in the days to come. Jayne Nadalin Bell
Bill Roberts
May 6, 2013
Bette & family,
Bernard, Dennis & I share your sorrow on Bill's passing. We are grateful to have had the privilege of being lifelong friends of the Tyzniks. Like you, we are comforted by the memories of a life well lived and Bill's generosity of time and spirit.
We love you and offer all of our prayers and support to each of you.
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