(1934-2023)
Bill, 89, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children, after a brief illness. Born to William and Louise (Tigani) DiNardo, Bill was a lifelong resident of the Wilmington area, graduating from St Thomas the Apostle grade school, Archmere Academy and the University of Delaware.
Following graduation, Bill spent time at various jobs before finally joining his father in the bar/restaurant business. Under Bill’s direction, DiNardo’s changed from a local neighborhood pub to a world-renowned seafood restaurant, where customers would wait for hours to enjoy the steamed crabs and french fries and of course the secret sauce that’s been often imitated though never equaled.
In 1957 Bill married Phyllis Jennings, the love of his life, and they spent 50 wonderful years together. Bill and Phyllis raised 5 high-spirited children, instilling in each of them the importance of family, hard work, and community involvement. Despite the commitment of running his own business, Bill always made his kids a priority, rarely missing their varied activities. He carried this tradition through to his grandchildren, where they could always find him watching from the stands (and sometimes sidelines). He loved having his children work with him at the restaurant, though usually sent them home early because they caused more trouble than they were worth. In addition, Bill firmly believed in giving back to his community, evidenced by his involvement with IHM parish (football coach, eucharistic minister, parish council) as well as board participation with Padua Academy and West End Neighborhood House.
In 2008 Bill was dealt with the devastating loss of Phyllis and has been waiting patiently to join her when his time arrived. Additionally, Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Claire (King) and his brother Anthony. Bill is survived by his sister Carmela Pala (Bill) and his five children: Bill (Sheila), Mark (Michele), Karen, Bruce (Amy) and BethAnn Troy (Ed). Bill will be dearly missed by his 15 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. The family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr Jeffery Guarino of Christiana care as well as the staff at Manor Care Foulk Road, especially Nurse Kelly and the entire Arcadia crew for the compassionate care of their father over the past two years.
A viewing will be held for family and friends on Sunday March 19 from 4-6 pm at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home (3924 Concord Pike, 19803). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday March 20 at 11 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary (4701 Weldin Rd, 19803) followed by entombment at Cathedral Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Archmere Academy (3600 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703), the West End Neighborhood House (710 N Lincoln St, Wilm DE 19805) or the charity of your choice.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
