William Kondla

After 78 full and wonderful years of life, William J. Kondla of Wayne, NJ passed away on February 14, 2021.  Bill was a graduate of Fair Lawn High School and RCA Technical Institute, and attended Fairleigh Dickinson University.  His talents as an electrical contractor, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit inspired him to start Oak Electric Company, where he established many meaningful relationships with colleagues, suppliers, and clients.  Bill was also proud to serve as Chief of the Oakland Fire Department.  After a successful business career, he enjoyed an early retirement, and continued to be involved in his community by serving on several boards.  As an avid golfer, Bill was an active member of North Jersey Country Club.  He loved spending time with family, and keeping in touch with friends old and new.  He was passionate about politics, investing, and staying current with technology.  Organized and detail-oriented, he took pleasure in engaging in projects and could fix anything.

Bill was a loyal and loving husband to Fran Kondla, his high school sweetheart.  When they first started dating, he rode his bicycle to her home.  They attended the Fair Lawn High School Prom together and soon fell in love.  After asking Fran’s parents for permission to marry her, they wed on May 2, 1964 at Saint Ann’s Church in Fair Lawn.  They honeymooned in Miami, FL, and took a cruise to Nassau, Bahamas.  

Bill was a devoted and supportive father to daughter Kim Kondla and her partner Tony Celia of West Chester PA, and daughter Dawn Bianchini and her husband Val Bianchini of Wayne NJ, an adoring and involved grandfather to grandchildren Jennifer Calabrese and Kevin Calabrese, and a mentor to many.

Out of respect for the well-being of the many people with whom Bill made treasured connections, funeral services will be private.  The family will have an intimate gathering to celebrate his happy and well-lived life.  Thoughts and prayers are appreciated.