William E. Negrelli

William E. Negrelli, cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and esteemed member of the Cleveland community, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on May 3, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the beloved son of the late Joseph and Marguerite Negrelli. Bill's life was marked by an unwavering dedication to his family, profession, and service to his country.

Raised in the vibrant neighborhoods of Collinwood and Mayfield Heights, Bill's early years were filled with the warmth of community and the joys of youthful exploration. He graduated from Mayfield High School in 1954, where he first met the love of his life, Virginia. They married in August 1957, beginning a journey that would bring them four wonderful children and countless cherished memories.

Bill's commitment to service extended beyond his family. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a member of the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, during the occupation of Korea from 1954 to 1956. His dedication to his country was a testament to his character and values.

After returning from military service, Bill pursued higher education with the same passion he applied to all aspects of his life. He earned a degree in Sociology from John Carroll University in 1960 and later graduated from Cleveland State University College of Law (then Cleveland Marshall College of Law) in 1964. Bill's professional journey saw him become a respected private attorney in Cleveland, a role he embraced with integrity and dedication. His role as a South Euclid Councilman further demonstrated his commitment to public service.

Bill's passion for education was evident in his 35-year tenure as a professor of real estate law at Cuyahoga Community College, Lakeland Community College, Lorain County Community College, Baldwin Wallace, and John Carroll University. His career at RTA was a testament to his unwavering dedication, and even after retiring, he continued to practice law at City Title Company until December 2023. His contributions to the field were significant, and his impact on his students and colleagues was deeply felt.

Outside of his professional life, Bill was a man of the outdoors. He and Virginia shared a profound love for nature, often spending weekends camping in all kinds of weather and enjoying winter breakfasts in the park with their children. His family fondly recalls the moments spent around the campfire, sharing stories, laughter, and the simple joys of life. Bill's spirit of adventure was reflected in the ever-changing flower, pond, and rock gardens he meticulously tended, blending a love for nature with his creative flair. Bill was also an advocate for stray dogs. We were never surprised to come home and find a new canine companion.

Bill's legacy is one of love, dedication, and an enduring commitment to his family and community. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his wife Virginia, his deep devotion to his children, and his generosity of spirit.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia; his four children, Kristine A. (Robert) Basso, Teresa M. (Douglas) Hurley, Marna L. (Timothy) Hagan, and William G. (Danielle) Negrelli; his grandchildren, James C. Kellackey, Daniel J. McGuire, and Kelly K. McGuire, Ashley, Jay, Brandon, Madison, and Mabel Negrelli; great-grandson Anthony J. Kellackey; and numerous nieces and nephews.

His parents, Joseph and Marguerite Negrelli, and his brothers, Thomas J. and Joseph P. Negrelli, preceded him in death.

A memorial service to honor Bill's life will be held at a later date. Friends and family are invited to celebrate his legacy and profound impact on everyone who knew him.

Semper Fi, Dad.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Autism Society of America at Autismsociety.org, a cause close to Bill's heart.