William J. "Bill" McGraw

William J. McGraw, known lovingly to so many as “Bill the Bike Guy,” passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 15, 2025, at his home in Chicago, Illinois. He was 83 years old.

Born in Spring Valley, Illinois, on June 12, 1942, Bill grew up with a deep sense of kindness, humility, and generosity that defined his entire life. A proud alumnus and lifelong supporter of Southern Illinois University (SIU), Bill carried his Saluki spirit everywhere he went.

To his family, friends, and neighbors, Bill was a man whose heart knew no limits. He was known throughout the community for his love of bicycles, not for racing or collecting, but for restoring and giving them away. As “Bill the Bike Guy,” he spent countless hours fixing up bikes to donate to charities, people in need, and members of the Jewish community. Bill took great pride in his Jewish identity and was a devoted member of Congregation Ezras Israel, where he found community, purpose, and friendship. His generosity wasn’t just a hobby; it was a way of life.

Bill’s warmth and compassion touched everyone he met. He had a rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and cared for, and his kindness rippled through every corner of his life. Those who knew him will remember his gentle spirit, his unwavering generosity, and the quiet joy he found in giving to others.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Gail, and his three children, Darren, Sarah, and Zack, to whom he was devoted. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Catherine McGraw, his brother, Bernard “Bernie” McGraw, and Gail’s beloved twin brother, Neal Allen Kelber.

A graveside service will be held on Friday at 11:00 AM at New Light Cemetery, 6807 N. East Prairie Rd., Lincolnwood, IL 60712.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Joseph & Catherine Mignone McGraw Endowment Fund, part of Southern Illinois University at www.siuf.org/give/ in honor of Bill’s enduring support for education and community.

Bill lived a life of selflessness, love, and quiet strength. His legacy of generosity and compassion will continue to shine through the lives he touched, one smile, one bicycle, and one act of kindness at a time. May his memory be a blessing. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com.

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