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William Martin Mandara, 55, of Fishers, Indiana passed away on February 19, 2026.
William was born on August 9, 1970, in Dar es Salaam East Africa to his parents, Lillian (Mallya) Mandara and Dr. Martin Mandara.
William was preceded in death by Paternal grandparents; Petro Mringi Salema and Lusiana Salema Mandara. Maternal grandparents; Jacob George Mallya and Allendwa Mallya.
William is survived by his loving parents; his brother, Mallya Sam (Monica) Mandara and niece Lillianzoe; his wife of eight years, Stephanie Mandara; and his daughters by marriage, Amanda (Nick) Ehrhart, Karin (Tyler) Shoemaker, and Emily (Brian) Ingram. He was a proud and devoted Papaw to eight grandchildren whom he adored: Logan, Sophia, Aubrey, Owen, Mason, Lillian, Jackson, and Lydia. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
William often shared that his goal in life was to come to America and become a citizen. In 1992, he came to the United States to attend college and pursue his education. He earned his BS degree in Biology/Chemistry (pre-med) and later his MBA from Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio. In 2011, William proudly realized his lifelong dream of becoming an American citizen.
William had a deep and unwavering faith. He served as a volunteer at Grace Church Fishers, Indiana before becoming a member of the staff at Grace Church 146 st,
Noblesville, Indiana. William faithfully served in various positions at Grace for ten years. During that time, he also attended two men’s bible study groups where he formed lifelong friendships and continued to grow in his faith. William’s infectious joy and enthusiasm and commitment to discipleship resonated proudly.
William was passionate about people and truly never met a stranger. He often greeted others with the words, “You are family.” He brought contagious joy, warmth, and enthusiasm to every interaction. William had a beautiful gift of connecting people, and it was clearly his calling.
William also had a lifelong love of soccer. He played in college and continued playing for many years afterward, enjoying Saturday morning games and the camaraderie that came with them.
William was a gift to the world and to everyone whose lives he touched. While he will be deeply missed by many, his legacy will live on as we continue to love out loud like William. Per William’s wishes, he will be cremated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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