William M. Aiken Jr.

2025 - 2025

William M. Aiken Jr., of Fox Chapel, Ligonier, and Reunion, FL, passed away peacefully in his home in Fox Chapel on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025. William was a beloved figure in the Pittsburgh real estate community and a devoted husband. He was 80 years old. Born on March 16, 1945, in Pittsburgh, William known to many as Bill remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life. He pursued higher education at Dickinson College in Carlisle, where he majored in economics and minored in Spanish. His early professional years included trainee positions in the steel industry and work as a stockbroker. However, it was in 1974 that Bill discovered his true calling when he earned his real estate license and began his enduring relationship with the Howard Hanna company. Bill's career with Howard Hanna began as a sales associate in the Fox Chapel Office, where he quickly developed a deep passion for real estate. In 1977, he was named manager of the Fox Chapel office. During this time, he played a pivotal role in developing the Allegheny Valley Office and launching the Distinctive Homes Division initiatives that helped shape the company's future. In 1984, Bill took over management of Howard Hanna's Sewickley Office. Under his leadership, the office rose to prominence, surpassing local competitors and securing the top position in market share. Bill had a keen eye for "higher end" properties and was deeply committed to supporting his agents' success. His leadership journey continued in 1990 as he managed the Upper St. Clair Office, where he cultivated a team of agents and achieved dominant market share. Later in 1994, Bill was entrusted with overseeing Howard Hanna's flagship Shadyside Office a hub of excellence within the company where he remained until late 2017. Throughout his distinguished career, Bill was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his genuine love of working with people. Whether assisting buyers and sellers or mentoring agents, he brought warmth, integrity, and joy to every interaction. For Bill, real estate was more than a job it was a passion that never felt like work. He is survived by his loving partner and husband of 26 years, Eric Wallis; his brother, David Aiken (Sandra Soares); niece, Elisabeth Aiken (Peter Gallo) and their sons, Jack and Tucker; niece, Jessica Uelsmann (Andrew) and their children, Maren and Jamie; his sister, Betsy Aiken; niece, Maureen Kelly; stepchildren, Kiran Paranjpe (Tonnie Markley) and their sons, Ravi and Kavir; Anjelika Temple (David) and their daughters, Anokhi and Indira; as well as his beloved aunt, Mary Skinner; and numerous cousins. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William M. Aiken Sr. and Nancy Jane Aiken (Skinner); and by his brother-in-law, Arvind Paranjpe. Outside of work, Bill cherished quiet moments with Eric. The two shared a love for long drives through neighborhoods admiring homes and landscaping, as well as discovering new restaurants together simple pleasures that brought them closer. Bill will be remembered as a gentleman whose kindness, thoughtfulness, and unwavering support touched everyone around him. His legacy lives on not only through his remarkable contributions to Pittsburgh's real estate landscape but also through the countless lives he enriched with his compassion and grace. A memorial service will be held at a later date to honor Bill's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh in memory of William M. Aiken Jr. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. Arrangements by JOHN A. FREYVOGEL SONS INC., freyvogelfuneralhome.com.