William Prokopis

William Theodore Prokopis

"Bill"

MAGNA-Our loving husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, father-in-law, brother, uncle, and friend Bill passed away May 23, 2010, at the age of 73.  He died peacefully at home in his sleep. Bill was born January 29, 1937 in Magna, Utah, to Theodore John and Eleni Kosmopoulos Prokopis.

He grew up in Magna and graduated from Cyprus High in 1954.  He fell in love with Nanette Atkin, of Tooele; they married when Bill got out of the Army in 1959. They were side by side for 45 years until Nanette passed away in 2004. Together in Magna they raised four children.  Bill dedicated his life to helping others in so many ways.  Bill gave 31years of distinguished and honorable service to the Salt Lake County Fire Department and retired in 1996 at the rank of Captain.  He was also a respected and successful business owner.   Bill and Nan established "Bill's Lounge" in 1964, a fixture on Main Street in Magna for 44 years. Anyone could stop in and find a friendly face in Bill, a man with a heart as big as his stature.  The people he met and served were the things he cherished most, he treated everyone as though they were family.  He was a great story-teller, he never forgot a name, never forgot a joke, even though some wished he would have. Also, there may have been an email or two that he forwarded, that although funny, may have been inappropriate.  He enjoyed following his kids and grandkids in their sports activities and was an avid Notre Dame Football fan.

Survived by sons, Tedd (Debbie), Steve (Stephanie); daughters; Kaye "Sis" (Janet) Prokopis, Cari (Scott) McBride, all from Magna; twelve grandchildren and six A� great-grandchildren; brother, John (Marie) Prokopis, of Holladay; many nieces, nephews, and a dear friend, Lynn Andersen.

Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Nanette; an infant son Prokopis; his grandsons, Billy T. Prokopis and Paul Prokopis.

A special thanks from the family to Salt Lake County Fire Department for the many friendships and support, and to the many friends, employees, and patrons of Bill's Lounge over the years... Bill loved you all and we were glad to share him with you.

He was truly a great man who will be missed dearly by so many.

A public graveside service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, May 27, 2010 at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 E. 500 S. Friends and family may call at an extended viewing on Wednesday 3-9 p.m. at Peel Funeral Home, 8525 W. 2700 S., Magna. Private family services will be held on Thursday 11 a.m. at the funeral home.