William Anthony Banaszek

William Anthony Banaszek, 63, of Salem, Oregon, passed peacefully at his home in Salem on January 9, 2023. Bill was born July 12, 1959, in Erie, Pennsylvania to Sheila and Richard Banaszek. Bill is survived by his daughter Amber West, her husband Kris West, grandson Koen West, and brothers Rick Banaszek, Tim Banaszek, Lance Banaszek, Daryl Banaszek, and Darcy Banaszek.

Bill’s family lived in numerous places during his early years, moving often due to his father’s career. They ultimately settled in Stevenson, Washington, where the family lived for many years. Bill graduated from Stevenson High School in 1977. He then attended Mt. Hood Community College, where he received associate degrees in Graphic Arts and Journalism.

While attending college, Bill met and married Candace Covey (now Robbecke). They moved to Anchorage, Alaska in 1980 and were married for five years, during which they had their daughter Amber. Bill moved from Anchorage in 1993 to be near his daughter in Salem, Oregon, where he lived for his remaining years.

In Anchorage, he worked for many years as a graphic artist. After moving to Salem, Bill worked for the State of Oregon for nearly 28 years, including positions as a Design Specialist, a Public Affairs Specialist, and at the time of his retirement Bill was a Communications Coordinator for the Oregon Health Authority.

Bill was honored in 2018 as a finalist for a “Silent Heroes” award based in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes public service leaders who operate behind the scenes to created positive change in their organization. 

Bill will be remembered for his soft-spoken, gentle nature and razor-sharp wit. He cared deeply for his family and his family of choice, including his former in-laws and close friends. He was a devoted father, whose daughter was his greatest joy.

Bill’s first day of retirement was January 1, 2023, just days before his passing. He looked forward to enjoying his retirement and had recently taken up drumming and bike riding. He planned to spend more time in Alaska, where he shared property in Kasaan on Prince of Whales Island with Amber and Kris.