William Gorgas Wise

William “Bill” Gorgas Wise

Motorsports Fan -

William “Bill” Gorgas Wise, age 76, of Mechanicsburg, passed away at UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital on Saturday, December 26, 2020.  Bill was born on Tuesday, October 17, 1944, in Carlisle to the late Robert Gorgas Wise and Mildred Maye (Chadwick) Wise.  In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his stepson, John Glosek.

Bill’s survivors include his wife of over 13 years, Paula SuAnne (Bagshaw) Wise; his two children: Kelly Chilcote and husband Brad of Dillsburg, PA, Thomas “Tom” Gorgas Wise and wife Tara of Catawissa, PA; his six grandchildren; his two siblings: Robert “Bob” Wise of Mechanicsburg, Mary Lou Kauffman and husband Fred of Maryland; several nieces and nephews; and his canine companion, Jax.

Bill graduated from Mechanicsburg High School as part of the class of 1962 and from Williamsport Area Community College with a degree in machinery.  He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea.  Bill retired as a supervisor from the Navy Depot in Mechanicsburg in 2005.  As a youngster, Bill washed cars at Williams Grove Speedway, where his passion for anything with wheels and a large motor developed.  He was a fan of tractor pulls and purchased a sprint car to field his own race team.  Bill’s family will miss him very much.

Bill’s family will be celebrating his life privately.  Cremation was private.

Bill’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Bill’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.