William "Billy Kaye" Krempasky
William "Billy Kaye" Krempasky
January 16, 1937 ‐ June 06, 2022
Age 85, born January 16, 1937 went home to be with the Lord on June 6, 2022.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Nancy Louise Krempasky (nee Kalat) who was the love of his life for 55 years! He is survived by his 3 children William (Sally) Krempasky, Laura (Brian) Kapalka and Dave (Tricia) Krempasky, his sister Mary Jo Liba (Jack) and loving grandfather of Kyle, Paul, Catherine and Matthew.
William was born in Cleveland, OH to Stephen & Margaret Krempasky and graduated from John Adams High School. He spent a brief period in the US Coast Guard and US Army Reserves before pursuing his passion in the music and entertainment industry.
For Billy Kaye, music was his life! He played accordion, standup acoustic & electric bass guitar and also was a gifted singer. He started his musical career playing nightclubs, weddings, fashion shows, and charity events. He played at Jacobs Field, the Nautica Queen, Costa Cruise line, many country clubs, party centers, retirement communities, parades, and many local concerts in the park.
He was a proud member of the Cleveland Federation of Musicians, and had the privilege of entertaining several Presidents when they came to campaign and fundraise in northeast Ohio. One of his favorite events was entertaining the lunchtime crowds on Cleveland’s Mall C. Whenever his wife or daughter were in attendance, he would always sing “Nancy” and “Laura” as a tribute to them. He especially knew how to connect with people and make them feel special at any event. He brought joy through his gift of music to many people. As everyone knows, musicians don’t retire! He actually played an Easter Sunday Brunch “gig” this past April at a party center in Westlake - his hometown since 1966.
He especially loved his wife Nancy, his children & grandchildren! He was an avid saver and enjoyed, travelling and attending events at local senior centers and churches. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him!
Visitation will be Friday, July 29 at Jenkins Funeral Chapel from 6-8pm 2914 Dover Center Rd, Westlake, OH 44145. Funeral Mass will be Saturday, July 30 at 11am at St. Ladislas Catholic Church 2335 Bassett Rd, Westlake, OH 44145.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Cleveland Foodbank
https://www.greaterclevelandfoodbank.org/
Guest Comments
Mary Jo & Jack Liba
Chagrin Falls, OH
There are no words that could possibly convey our deep sadness and grief.
My brother's passing leaves a huge void in our hearts and lives. Love you, Bill.
Mary Jo & Jack Liba
Steve & Mary Krempasky
Farragut, TN
Heaven's orchestra is now complete. It was you Uncle Bill, that gave me my appreciation of the importance of music and a good joke throughout this journey of life. Rest in peace and know you touched many lives.
Jeff Pecon
Westlake Ohio
Billy and I played many engagements together. He was always focused on making his audience happy. I always enjoyed being with him and Nancy when she would join him. I’m sure he’s with Nancy singing to her as he often did. We send our condolences to the family. RIP my friend. God bless!
Beverly Kazanoff
Boca Raton Florida
I worked with Billy.I was the hostess when he played
at the Parkbrook Lounge In the late 60's I remember when he met Nancy God will take care of him he was a wonderful man My loving thoughts and prayers to all his family
Beverly
William J Krempasky (son)
Sagamore Hills, Oh
Miss you so much Dad! I learned so much from you over the years - how to be a good father, husband, & friend! I know these last few months were not easy, but I am comforted knowing that you are now reunited with Nancy, your parents, your brother, and Jesus Christ our savior in Heaven! Love you forever, Bill, Sally, Kyle, Paul, & Catherine
Dick Sanders
Westlake, Ohio
Bill, Laura and David. I was precluded from attending your dads visitation last night. He and your mom were both such special people, to Mary Lou and I personally and to countless others as well. Our friendship spans the years and community activities. Scouting has a fond memory for me. Your mom and dad were always first in line to help when needed. A special time was when your dad brought a combo aboard the Nautica Queen to play the entire afternoon for my retirement party. Walking the decks of the queen with his base fiddle bringing great music and happiness to our guest's. Love the obituary picture. If that doesn’t epitomize your dad I don’t know what would. Carry on. That would have been your dad’s admonition. Grace and Peace, Dick and Mary Lou Sanders.