William DiBlasi ‘65
William James “Bill” DiBlasi, a devoted family man, Navy veteran, and lifelong resident of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 30, 2025, at the age of 77.
Bill was born in Columbus, Ohio, and graduated from St. Francis DeSales High School in 1965. He served honorably in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1972 aboard the submarines USS Ronquil and USS Tigrone, where he contributed to important missions including mapping the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. During his military service, Bill was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.
Following his service, Bill earned a degree in Finance from Ohio State University in 1974. He worked at Huntington Bank before launching his own general contracting business specializing in residential construction. Later in life, he transitioned to real estate investment. Bill was nothing if not determined—he put in the work, took pride in doing things right, and left behind a legacy of quality craftsmanship.
A man of many passions, Bill enjoyed woodworking and crafting homemade Christmas toys for his grandchildren. He was an avid treasure hunter and collector, with a particular fondness for boating and fishing at Buckeye Lake. Bill’s enthusiasm for antique cars, especially MGs, was well known among his friends and family. An active member of the Columbus Italian Club, he enjoyed many bocce games with his son Jim as his partner. He was also a strong supporter and fan of the Upper Arlington Special Olympics. Bill’s generous spirit, steadfast loyalty, quick humor, and determined nature left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He cherished family above all else. His grandkids were his greatest delight, and he carried the love of his family with immense pride.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jamie; children Michael (Christine), Kimberly (Matthew) Petersen, Andrew (Jennifer), Nicholas (Julie), and James; his grandchildren Joey, Tommy, Billy, Izzy, Leah, Josie, Blaise, Addie, Elise, Grace, Stella, Christian, Kyleigh, and Emmy; and step-grandsons Ryan and Chase Ouellette.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Frances (DiNovo) DiBlasi; brother Paul Dominic DiBlasi; and granddaughter Clare.