Obituary of William C. Viel, Jr

In the early morning of Tuesday, October 1^st, 2024, William C. Viel, Jr joined his beloved wife Sharon in eternity after an extended hospital stay at Upstate Hospital.

Billy was born on January 21, 1950 in Staunton, Virginia to Jean Butler Viel and William C. Viel (predeceased). His family moved to Syracuse when he was 12 years old and this is where he called home.  He graduated from Nottingham High School and was a proud member of the Syracuse Fire Department from 1978-2004.  Since 1997, he worked alongside family and friends who he always treated like family running Gannon Pest Control.  Billy was an amazing mentor, friend, and leader to everyone at Gannon Pest Control.   

Billy is survived by his brother, David Viel of League City, Texas, his children; Mena Viel, William (Sabrina) Viel, Jennifer Savastino, and “bonus” son Fred Hoige. Also Nephew Morgen (Lauren) Viel, Niece Tayler (Jared) Havard, and great nieces Sloan and Olivia Viel of League City, TX.  His children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews were his pride and joy.  His granddaughter, Isabella, will forever remember her Papa for always being the father she needed; whenever she needed him. Isabella and Joshua will always cherish the Saturday play dates with Grandma and Papa. Papa always tolerated whatever silliness those two devised.  Colin, Daniel, Isabella, Joshua, Dominick, Luca and Natalie have gained another guardian angel that will forever be by their side.

Billy was an avid Coin Collector and Civil War historian.  Billy and Sharon were very active in the Gem and Mineral Society of Syracuse; enjoyed assisting with the annual Gem Show and the many friends they made in their years as board members.  Sunday dinners, family game nights, and epic Christmas’s were some of their favorite activities. They were also annual visitors to Topsail Island, NC. 

Billy will always be remembered for his welcoming smile, easy disposition, and the ability to make everyone feel like family. Most who knew him referred to him as Papa Billy or Uncle Billy. He was loved and respected by so many and will be missed by his immediate family, extended family, and everyone that had the opportunity to know him.

Billy’s family would like to thank the amazing Doctors & Nurses on Floor 6H of the Upstate Hospital MICU.  They truly cared for our Dad and we will always be grateful for the love & compassionate care they showed toward him.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 7PM at Edward J. Ryan and Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave.  Calling hours prior from 4 to 7PM.  Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Syracuse Challenger Baseball; 148 Summerhaven Drive South, East Syracuse NY 13057.