Bill Sallas

Bill Sallas Sr., 76, of Cleveland, Tennessee, died peacefully in his home, surrounded by loved ones on August 25, 2021 after fighting a long, brave battle with cancer.

Born on October 21, 1944 in Goodwater, AL, he was raised on his small family farm where he developed a love for agriculture and a green thumb. Following his graduation from Goodwater High School, he attended Jacksonville State University where he studied math education and participated in ROTC. He returned to Goodwater High School as a math teacher for 2 years before being called to serve in the United States Air Force (1967-73).
Bill’s Air Force career took him across the US, serving in Texas, Colorado, California and lastly at England Air Force Base in Alexandria, LA. He separated from the Air Force at the rank of Captain and was fiercely proud of his service during a difficult time in our nation’s history. While serving in Louisiana, Bill met Rita (Ewing) Sallas, the first love of his life, and the 2 were married until her passing in 2012.

Following his Air Force service, Bill joined International Harvester in 1973 and stayed with the company through his entire career, retiring from CaseIH in 2012. He loved his job, his colleagues and the locations his job allowed him to travel including Europe, Australia and the Middle East.

Bill and Rita retired to their dream home overlooking Center Hill Lake in Sparta, TN. They loved everything about that house, most notably their wonderful neighbors with whom they spent countless hours dining, golfing, shopping, and helping each other.

Bill lost Rita in 2012 after lovingly caring for her during her own long battle with cancer. He threw himself into his community, friends, church, and volunteering at the Rock House in Sparta, TN.

Bill was fortunate to meet the second love of his life, Patrice Koser, whom he married in August 2014. They lived many years in Sparta and Cleveland, making countless friends throughout their community and especially their church. Bill was incredibly thankful to Patrice for her love and care during his battle with cancer.

Bill was known for his love of God, friends, landscaping, and the great outdoors. He never missed an opportunity to help out a friend, neighbor, or family member. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to all he met. His friends and family meant the world to him and we will always carry his memory in our hearts.

Bill is survived by his wife Patrice, sister Bettie, his son Bill (Susan) and his two grandchildren Caroline and Benjamin of whom he was so very proud. He is preceded by his mother Gladys, father W.H., and brother James.

A Memorial Service will be held at a future date to be shared later.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge program.