William Lee Sousae, 87, of Seneca, passed away early Wednesday morning. August 24, 2016, after a period of declining health. 

            Bill was born October 7, 1928  in Franklin, the son of the late Freda Lischman-Lee Sousae and Merle Frederick Sousae; and was the grandson of  Minnie Sousae, who owned the boarding house on 12th and Otter Streets in Franklin.   

             He attended Franklin High School where he played football, and the Texas Chiropractic College.  He served in the Army Air Force during WW II, stationed in Germany. 

            Bill, a true gentleman,  lived in California for 38 years, first in Dana Point on his beloved yacht, the Cinnabar, then moved to Newport Beach, after which he returned to Pennsylvania and resided in Seneca. 

            Bill was of the Episcopal faith.

            He was an avid golfer prior to his illness.  He enjoyed  golfing with his brother, George and nephew, Ron; picnics and holidays with his nephew, Robert "Spike" McMichael, visiting with his two nieces, Lori & Judy, and watching golf and football on TV, especially the Cleveland Browns. 

            He was known for his stories, sense of humor, and acute memory of his life experiences. 

            Bill was employed at two nuclear generating plants, San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in California, and also in Shippingport, Pennsylvania; and traveled throughout the country. 

            He is survived by his brother George of California and his family: Ron & Laura Sousae, Judy and Mark Wheeling, Lorrie & Randy DeVillars, Georgie Sousae (Allie), Jacquie Plitt (Doug); a brother  John "Jack" and Jan Sousae of New Hampshire and family; and a sister, Helen Gerlach of Ohio and her family Cindy, Heidi and Suzie.              Also surviving is a nephew, Robert "Spike" McMichael & companion Lynn Van Slyke, with whom he had a father/daughter relationship with while caring for him during his declining health; and his nephew John & Billie McMichael and niece Sherrie Frankenburger. 

              He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Marian Elizabeth "Betty" McMichael and Dorothy Ann "Dot" Whitaker; a brother, Robert "Bob" Sousae and a nephew, Robert F. "Bobby" Sousae. 

            Bill had become very close to some special people in his life who cared for him from the Hospice/VNA and V.A.; so a very special thank you goes out to his girls whom he and Lynn grew to love, Joyce, Pam, and Heather from VNA/Hospice, and Kelly, his V.A. nurse.  With help from them and Lynn, Bill was able to live at home comfortably and well cared for. 

            There will be no visitation per Bill's wishes, but a celebration of his life will be arranged at the family's convenience for family and friends.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Venango County V.N.A. Foundation, 491 Allegheny Blvd., Franklin PA  16323. 

            The Hile-Best Funeral Home in Seneca, Cranberry Township is completing funeral arrangements.  Condolences may be submitted online by visiting www.hilebest.com.   

            As Bill would say, "Catch you on the 19th hole, later."

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