William S. Stein Jr.

Of Pittsburgh, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.  He is survived by his partner of 8 years, Janet Fromkin; daughter, Katie (Adam) Ullman; son, Sam (Margot) Stein; 5 grandchildren, Aidan McAuley-Stein, Gavin Ullman, Naomi Stein, Anderson Stein, and Sullivan Stein; siblings, Nancy (Scott) Schroeder, John (Kathy) Stein, and Rob (Sarah) Stein; stepmother, Mary Ann Stein; in-laws, Helen Pratt, Hildred Buck, Kenneth (Pat) Starks, and Richard (Deb) Starks. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews, as well as several lifelong friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 44 years, Marilyn Stein (Starks); parents, William (Bill) S. Stein Sr. and Lila Stein (Rosenbaum); brother-in-law, Kenneth Pratt; brother-in-law, Norman Buck; and brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Lois Starks.

Born in Paducah, KY, Bill moved to Chicago, IL, as an infant and then to the East Bay in CA for his school years.  He pursued his career in Chicago, IL, Rochester, NY, and predominantly in Pittsburgh, PA, where he made a profound and lasting impact on several civic organizations.

He was a devoted husband, partner, father, grandfather, and a dedicated volunteer for his community.  Bill served on many boards, including the Bayer Center for Non-Profit Management, The Pittsburgh Children’s Festival, and The Society for Contemporary Craft.

He started his career in advertising and quickly rose to become a successful marketing executive for several global advertising agencies as well as the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.  Bill concluded his career with several Executive Director positions including with The Holocaust Museum of Pittsburgh and Rodef Shalom Synagogue.  He was meticulous, a strategist and planner, and very proud of his contributions to the community.

Bill loved the outdoors, live music, good food and drink, the arts, traveling, and being with his family and friends.  He was an avid reader, car and motorcycle enthusiast, and thoroughly enjoyed scenic drives and walks.  Bill enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others and was proud of the family he and Marilyn created, and the legacy he leaves through his community contributions.

Bill’s family would like to sincerely thank Bridges Hospice, as well as Dr. Vikram Gorantla and staff at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center for their exceptional care.   Additionally, Jan’s guidance, care, and tireless support throughout Bill’s medical journey cannot be overstated.   Our heartfelt gratitude for all they have done.

All are welcome Friday, June 21, 2024 from 4-7 PM, WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp., 412-563-2800. 

Later in life, Bill reconnected with his Jewish heritage.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to his endowment fund online by using the links in blue or by checks that can be made payable to the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. Memo: William S. Stein Endowment Fund. They can be mailed to the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, 2000 Technology Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Please reference William S. Stein Endowment Fund in the comments if donating online.

www.slaterfuneral.com