William J. McCauley Jr.

William J. McCauley Jr. Age 85, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on January 28, 2026.

Bill was the beloved husband of the late Anna Mae McCauley (nee Donatelli), with whom he shared 47 wonderful years of marriage. He was a devoted father to Erin (Dave) Dryer, Tony McCauley, Mike (Tammie) McCauley, and Meghan (Billy) Brown, and a proud papa to Holly, Grace, Keegan, Rylie, Maggie, Maeve, Declan, Shelby, and Finnegan. He was so proud of the family he helped create.

Bill found unexpected joy in his loving companion of the last 13 years, Marge Gofron. He was the kind son of the late William McCauley Sr. and Myrtle Skukas, dear brother of the late Mary Trudo, and treasured cousin of Char Williamson. He was a dear brother-in-law, cherished uncle, and great friend to all, especially Jerry (late Barbara) Krawczyk, and his WOW and Lago crews.

Bill was a retired accountant whose spreadsheets were a thing of beauty. His fondness for sports was unmatched as he was a human encyclopedia for all sports from high school to college to professional. He single handedly tried to keep the publishing industry afloat by providing newspaper and magazine subscriptions to all his children, especially the Sun-Times. He also had a fondness for Jewel hot Italian sausage that was never missing from any family event. He loved gambling, traveling, and a good deal, and he passed along his laugh and his warped sense of humor to his children.

He was a longtime parishioner of St. Albert the Great, a dedicated member of the St. Anthony WOW for 15 years, and an honorary resident of Lago Vista in Lockport. He lived a life of quiet service, serving as a Boy Scout leader and treasurer for both the Burbank Girls Softball Association and Burbank Swim Association, and he was an active member of the St. Laurence Fathers Club. His faith, generosity, and warmth touched the lives of all who knew him. Bill never missed an opportunity to be the biggest cheerleader at his grandkids' events. His sense of fun and enthusiasm for life were evident to all who spent time with him. Bill will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many, many lives he brightened with his kindness and humor.

In honor of Bill, the family is requesting guests wear Bears and Cubs gear or colors.

Visitation Thursday 3-8 p.m.

Funeral Friday 9:00 a.m. from the Robert J. Sheehy & Sons Funeral Home, 9000 W. 151st Street, Orland Park, IL to St. Anthony Church, Mass 10:00 a.m.

Interment Good Shepherd Cemetery

Please leave a memory for the family on Bill's Tribute Wall; your stories will bring comfort to his family. www.sheehyfh.com 708-857-7878