William Chester Gwizdowski

Williams C. “Bill” Gwizdowski of Lewiston, NY passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family and under the compassionate care of Niagara Hospice. He was 77.

Born in Buffalo, NY to the late Chester and Adele (née Niski) Gwizdowski, Bill’s life was marked by service, dedication, and deep love for family. A proud graduate of Cardinal Doherty High School, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Business from Canisius College, laying the foundation for a life of leadership and integrity.

Bill answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1973, and later continuing his commitment in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, where he retired with distinction as a Lieutenant Colonel. His military career was followed by his role as Chief of Security Police at the Niagara Falls Air Base, and most recently, he served his community as a clerk for the Erie County Board of Elections.

He was first married to the late Joann Nizzaro, with whom he shared many years of love and partnership until her passing in 2001. In 2005, Bill found joy again when he married Donna L. Dever at the Niagara Falls Air Force Base. Together, they shared nearly two decades of companionship, laughter, and adventure.

Bill was a man of many passions. A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, he brought enthusiasm to every game day. He was a proud member of NIMAC and found quiet joy in working on puzzles. His love of travel took him on cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska, but his greatest joy was always found in the company of his cherished family, both biological and extended. Bill’s legacy of service, warmth, and unwavering devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; his loving children, Eric (April) Gwizdowski, Julie Ortez, and Jennifer (Doug) Weinert; and dear step-children, Laura (Michael) Marra and Daniel Segarra. Bill was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness. He is also survived by his caring siblings: Richard (Coleen) Gwizdowski, Christine (Donald) Petschke, Arlene (Alan) Hay, Frank (Debra) Gwizdowski, Donald (Tina) Gwizdowski, and Linda (David) Benn; as well as a host of treasured in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 3–7 PM at Hardison Funeral Homes, Inc., 401 Ridge Street, Lewiston. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 10 AM at St. Peter’s RC Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston. All are kindly asked to assemble at the church.

Condolences may be shared at HARDISONFUNERALHOMES.com.