Final Salute

William “Bill” Michael Bodnar, 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026. Bill was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary (Mohan) Bodnar, wife Claudette, brother Fred, sisters Patricia and Carole, daughter Julie, and daughter-in-law Kellie. He is survived by his wife Yvonne; brother Richard (Melba); children: C.J. (Jill), Richard (Cristie), Michael (Christi), and Jamie (Chuck); grandchildren: Abigail, Ryan, Josie, Ashley, Grace, Genevieve, and Jeb; and his great-grandson Theo.

Bill was born in Donora, Pennsylvania on November 19, 1935. After graduating from high school, he served his country as a Navy Seabee. After completing his service, Bill attended the University of California-Pennsylvania and graduated. He began teaching in the Norfolk Public Schools system where he worked for the next 28 years. Bill was active in Norfolk Elks Lodge #38 where he served as Exalted Ruler and the Galax Elks Lodge #2212 where he served as Secretary. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and rose to the rank of Grand Knight.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on October 22, 2026 at Saint Gregory’s Catholic Church in Virginia Beach. A graveside service will be held at the Old Mount Lebanon Cemetery at 10:00 AM on October 24, 2026 in Woodlawn, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to the Knights of Columbus.