William "Wild Bill" TORRISI

1934 - 2023

TORRISI - William "Wild Bill"
88, of Buffalo, NY, passed away on August 8, 2023, in Buffalo. He was born on November 30, 1934, in Buffalo, NY. Bill was a devoted husband, loving father, stepfather, cherished brother, proud grandfather, uncle and respected member of the community. Bill's career in racing was nothing short of remarkable and earned him a place in the prestigious FOAR Score Racing Hall of Fame. He dedicated himself to the growth and popularity of dirt and asphalt oval track auto racing throughout the East Coast and Southern Ontario. Affectionately known as "Wild Bill" among his countless fans, he competed against the most renowned racing families and legendary drivers in the sport, including the Allisons, Pettys, Jarretts, and Bodines, as well as racing icons AJ Foyt, Cale Yarborough, Richie Evans, and Jerry Cook. Throughout his illustrious 57-year racing career, Bill not only achieved numerous victories and championships but also played a pivotal role in advancing safety standards that continue to be practiced today. Known for his generosity, he willingly shared his wisdom, experience, and advice with aspiring racers, many of whom went on to achieve great success in their own racing careers. Bill's contributions to the sport will forever be remembered and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Beyond his racing achievements, Bill was a dedicated member of the community. He served as a committed member of the Wendelville Fire Company for 52 years, attended to the needs of others as an EMT, owned and operated Auto Stop Transmissions, and even officiated ice hockey games as a veteran referee. Additionally, he held positions as an animal control officer and planning board member in the Town of Pendleton, demonstrating his commitment to civic duty and his desire to make a positive impact. Bill is survived by his loving son A. Joseph Torrisi (Donna), stepdaughter Barbara Klumpp (Donald), stepson Ronald Duchnick (Diane), and sister Jeanne Hoffman. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marlene "Penny" Torrisi, father Cirino Torrisi, mother Lydia Torrisi nee Lanzilotta, brother Salvatore "Sonny" Torrisi, and sister Olga Kirk. A viewing and memorial service to honor Bill's life will be held at LOMBARDO Funeral Home, located at 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., Amherst, NY 14226, on Monday, August 14, 2023, from 4-7 pm. Following the viewing, a celebration of life will take place at the Wendelville Fire Hall, situated at 7340 Campbell Blvd, North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Friends and family are welcome to attend. Bill Torrisi will forever be remembered as a dedicated family man, a racing pioneer, and a pillar of his community. His unwavering commitment to his passions and his selfless nature will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his soul find eternal rest, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for generations to come.