WILLIAM R. FINKELE

1937 - 2025

William R. Finkele, 88, of Wellsboro, passed away at home June 18, 2025. He was born March 14, 1937, in Williamsport to William E. and Elizabeth (Stitzer) Finkele. He graduated from Williamsport High School and served his nation in the U.S. Air Force. While stationed at Laon AFB in France, he met his future wife, Yvette Gresillon, who was raising her 7-year-old sister Christine. May 6, 1960, William and Yvette were married. Bill was able to make the arrangements for both his wife Yvette and her sister to join him in America.
Bill, with his father and brother, owned and operated the Gulf Oil distributorship in Wellsboro; later he owned the X-Trail restaurant in Mansfield; and eventually became a corrections officer at the Tioga County Prison. Bill also served his community on the Town Council and as Mayor.
He was an avid golfer, having achieved a hole in one at Tyoga Country Club where he was a member since 1972. He was also an excellent bocce player, and an avid fisherman. He loved going on cruises with his wife, family, and friends. Upon retirement, Bill and Yvette would spend winters in Naples, Fla.
Bill is survived by his wife: Yvette Finkele, of Wellsboro; two daughters: Caroline Zatyko of Chautauqua, N.Y., and Suzanne Meyer (Doug) of Lake Ridge, Va.; three grandchildren: Zachary Zatyko of Columbia, Md., Savanna Meyer of Monterey, Calif., and Mitchell Meyer of Denver, Colo.; sister-in-law: Christine Perry (Thomas C.) of Keeneyville; two sisters: Nan Jandrosits of Naples, Fla., and Judy Finkele Taynton of Florida; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother: John Finkele, and a grandson: Joseph Zatyko.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation in Bill's honor from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, July 10, and 10-11 a.m. Friday July 11, at the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901, with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. Friday, July11 in the funeral home. Burial will be in the Wellsboro Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to Second Chance Animal Sanctuary, 725 Gee Road, Tioga, PA 16946. To share a memory or condolence with Bill's family visit www.tusseymosher.com.