William S. Cali, 73, Navy Veteran and Steel Industry Leader, Dies
William Salvatore Cali, a decorated Navy veteran, skilled outdoorsman, fierce cribbage player, and longtime leader in the steel industry, died on January 5, 2025. He was 73.
Born on November 11, 1951, in Cleveland to William Charles Cali and Catherine Carey, Mr. Cali was the second of four children. Raised with a love for nature and a strong sense of duty, he spent his youth hunting and trapping in the Cuyahoga River Valley and fishing in Long Point, Ontario. He graduated from Cuyahoga Heights High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1970.
During his military service, Mr. Cali served aboard the USS Tutuila (ARG-4) and USS Orion (AS-18) in support of submarine operations domestically and abroad. His work maintaining and repairing precision optical instruments earned him respect among his peers and superiors. He was honorably discharged in 1974.
Following his service, Mr. Cali attended trade school, mastering the art of welding. His career in the steel industry began modestly but flourished over three decades at Mid-America Steel, where he rose to the position of Plant Manager. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to his craft, he played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success before his retirement.
Outside of work, Mr. Cali devoted himself to raising, breeding, and showing Old English Game chickens. His commitment to the care and preservation of this breed was a reflection of his deep respect for heritage and craftsmanship.
In addition to his family, he is remembered by Cynthia Pavkov, with whom he shared a special and enduring bond during the later years of his life.
He is survived by his children: Sandra Abouhassan and her children, Gabriella, John, and Samantha; Julie and Scott Austin and their children, Dominic and Savannah; Lucas and Larrissa Cali and their children, Torren, KJ, Rocket, and Rowan; and John and Christina Cali and their children, Adelina and Isabella.
He also leaves behind his siblings: Joseph Cali (and his wife, Brenda) and Gertrude Selig-Menski (and her husband, John). He was predeceased by his parents, William Charles Cali and Catherine Carey, and his brother, Andrew Cali.
A. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Michaels Catholic Church 6912 Chestnut Rd. Independence, OH 44131.
The family will receive friends, prior to mass, in the church from 9 -10:00 a.m. Interment at All Saints Cemetery will follow.
