William Rask's Obituary
William “Bill” Charles Rask
August 19, 1950 – December 24, 2025
William “Bill” Rask passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 24, 2025, entering the eternal rest of the Lord he faithfully served throughout his life. Born on August 19, 1950, in Columbus, Ohio, Bill was the son of Maude and William Bergeron Rask. He grew up alongside his siblings in Euclid, Ohio—Jayne, Vicki, and Tim—each of whom shaped his early years with love and connection. Jayne and her late husband, Jack Subwick, welcomed one daughter, Michele. Vicki is the mother of Jeff and Eryn. Tim and his wife, Linda Rask, remain cherished parts of the family’s story.
Bill devoted many years to ministry, serving as a pastor and touching countless lives with his compassion, sincerity, and steadfast faith. He was a co‑founder of Memorial Christian Church, a community that reflected his heart for service, fellowship, and spiritual growth.
A creative soul, Bill expressed himself through poetry and essays, often writing under the pen name Billy the Pen. His work reflected his reflections on faith, family, and the world around him.
Later in life, Bill faced significant struggles with his mental health. Even through those challenges, his love for his family remained a constant thread. He is survived by his children—Lauren, Melissa, Megan, Vanessa, and Billy—and by his former wife, Kathryn Walton. Bill was also a proud grandfather to Ethan and Emily (Lauren’s children); Taylor, Kayla, and Savanna (Vanessa and Ryan’s children); and Carter and Kyleigh (Billy and Samantha’s children). His family remembers him with love, gratitude, and the comfort of knowing he is now at peace with the Lord.
A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In honor of Bill’s memory, the family encourages acts of kindness, support for mental health awareness, or time spent in reflection and prayer—gestures that echo the values he carried throughout his life.
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