December 20, 2020

FirstEnergy lost a member of our family recently as a result of COVID-19.

William “Bill” Gavalek, a facilities mechanic at the Miles Service Center in Cleveland, passed away on Dec. 4 after a courageous battle with the illness.

Bill started with the company in 2001 at the Perry Nuclear Power Plant and worked his entire career as a facilities mechanic. Bill joined The Illuminating Company (CEI) in 2005, but went back to Perry in 2007 before returning to CEI in 2009. In his spare time, Bill enjoyed being outdoors hiking, hunting and fishing.

Known as one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet, Bill was a personable and caring individual. With a wonderful sense of humor and a genuine concern for others, he was quick to offer his wide smile, warm heart and helping hand. While he wasn’t shy about giving his opinion, he always looked for the good in any situation and maintained a positive attitude.  Bill will be dearly missed by his friends and colleagues across the company.

Bill recently celebrated his 60^th birthday and leaves behind his wife, Nadine. To commemorate his life, the FirstEnergy Foundation will be making a $2,500 donation in Bill’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project, which is the 501(c)(3) organization chosen by his family.