William J. Theros, 93

March 11, 2019

William J. Theros, 93, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2019, peacefully in his sleep. He was a loving, caring, and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.

Bill was born in Lancaster, the son of the late James and Eugenia (Achilles) Theros, who emigrated from Greece. He was the husband for over 45 years to the late Mary Karos Theros before her passing in 1995. He then was married to Dorothy Ilvento Theros. Bill has 3 children, Elaine Hartl, wife of Rick Hartl, Lancaster, Carol Theros of York and James Theros of Lancaster. He has 3 grandchildren, Michelle Hartl of Wayne, Chris Hartl of Lancaster, and Gabrielle Theros of Lancaster. Bill is also survived by 3 siblings Kanella Voulopos of Mount Joy, Clara Pikolas of Lancaster and Aristotle Theros of Lancaster.

Bill attended F&M and graduated from the University of Miami with a B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Bill did graduate work at Trinity University in San Antonio, TX.

He served in the Air Force during WWII graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant navigator. Bill was called up from the Air Force Reserve as a navigational instructor in 1950 at the start of the Korean War, obtained the rank of 1St Lieutenant, and was stationed at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX until his discharge.

Bill was employed by General Cigar Company for over 38 years rising to the position of V.P. of Engineering. During his many years at General Cigar Bill achieved registration as a professional engineer in over 9 U.S. and 2 foreign countries.

His responsibilities included production, quality, design of automation of cigar production, plant expansion, and major maintenance for the companies 5 divisions. Bill traveled to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic establishing production facilities.

Bill has been a member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church all his life. He served on the church council in various capacities and served as V.P. of the building fund during the construction of the church in 1960 and chairman of the expansion committee in 1970. Bill was a former member of the AHEPA, (a philanthropic organization) and of the Optimist Club serving as chairman of the oratory committee.

During his life Bill enjoyed bowling, tennis, golf, and followed the Phillies baseball and Philadelphia Eagles. He also enjoyed playing pinochle and bridge and was a member of several local bridge clubs. Bill was an avid traveler. He enjoyed planning trips, the travel itself and then the memories while organizing the many pictures he would take.

Most recently Bill was living at Landis Homes and the family would like to thank them for the excellent care and support we all received.

The funeral service will be on Thursday, March 14th at 10:30 AM at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, with The Rev. Hector Firoglanis officiating, preceded by a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Bill to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster PA 17603.