William J. Walsh Jr.

William J. Walsh Jr., 90, of LaGrange Highlands, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Connecticut to Helen (Lipnicky) and William Walsh, Bill grew up in a small town where things were not always easy. He took on adult responsibilities at a young age, but found his escape and his passion in sports.

A standout athlete in high school, he played both basketball and baseball for Hamden High. Bill earned a full scholarship to Wake Forest, where he pitched for the Demon Deacons and helped the team win the 1955 NCAA Baseball Championship. His talent caught the attention of major league scouts, and he was offered a contract with the Milwaukee Braves. But life had other plans.

Bill was drafted into service, and while serving in the Army, he met the love of his life, Lydia. Newly married with a baby on the way, he faced a choice: pursue his major league dreams or build a life with his young family. True to the values that would define him, Bill chose family. He walked away from professional baseball, saying that life on the road would have been too hard on those he loved most. It was a decision that revealed everything about the man he was. He and Lydia shared 66 years of marriage filled with silly jokes, loving moments, and a partnership that was the foundation of everything.

Bill built a remarkable 57-year career in corporate production, starting out running the Chicago office for Jack Morton Productions. Later, he went out on his own and served as an owner and president of Williams/Gerard Productions Inc. for more than 40 years. But his true legacy was never about titles or achievements – it was about how he treated people. His work required significant travel. Bill knew this was hard on Lydia and their two young boys. When he was home, he was home – no golf outings, no nights out with the guys, just time with his family.

"The relationships you build with others define you," he taught his children, and he lived that truth every day. He became a father figure to many beyond his own family, mentoring and supporting those who needed it. Openhanded with his time and money, Bill approached everyone with respect and warmth. He would talk with people at length, helping them navigate both personal and professional struggles, giving freely of his wisdom and counsel. He was steady and dependable, strong both physically and mentally. Everyone who knew Bill felt his impact. Just ask all the people who received pounds of chocolates from him during the holidays!

In 1978, Bill and Lydia purchased a cottage in Culver, Indiana – his happiest place. For decades, the cottage at the lake became the heart of family fun, where summers were filled with laughter, love, and the kind of memories that last forever. That legacy continues today, with his son Pat and family now having their own cottage on the same circle drive, ensuring that Bill's love of family and togetherness lives on.

A devoted sports fan, Bill held season tickets to the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox for many years, always eager to treat friends and family to games. He loved the competition, the camaraderie, and any excuse to share an experience with people he cared about.

He gave generously to the Shriners Hospital, Native American children's organizations, and animal charities, reflecting his deep compassion for the vulnerable, and also supporting his wife's love for all animals big and small.

Bill was a man of remarkable resilience and enthusiasm for life. He was a problem solver, a steady presence, loyal and smart. William J. Walsh Jr. is survived by his beloved wife, Lydia; his son Patrick Walsh, his wife, Nikki (Phebus), and their children Ryan, Collin, Brendan, and Shannon; his daughter Laurie Walsh and her husband Paul Ritchie; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him. He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Walsh, and his sister, Barbara Sacramone.

Bill's family will miss the long conversations, his wise advice, and his unwavering willingness to help. They will miss watching him share hilarious moments with Lydia, debating with him, laughing with him at all his jokes, and simply being in the warmth of his company. His legacy will continue in all the lives he touched and in every gathering at that beloved cottage where his spirit will always feel closest.

He gave up a major league dream to be present for his family. He gave his children what they needed to pursue their goals. He made people feel valued and special. He lived with determination and joy. His big, beautiful smile was matched only by his love of a good joke and some Plush Horse ice cream. That is the measure of the man – William J. Walsh Jr. – a life extraordinarily well-lived.

A celebration of Bill's life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, https://narf.org/, or to an animal charity of your choice.