Bowling Green — William Zeigel was born in Jackson, Mississippi, to Eleanor and Dr. Howard Zeigel.

He spent a blissful and idyllic childhood in Mississippi, and it was obvious from how often he spoke of his extended family that he missed those halcyon days in his home state.

William followed in the footsteps of his intellectual family, first as a history teacher and then as a microbiologist. Those who worked with him in the Medical Center’s lab said he was a brilliant lab tech with an encyclopedic knowledge of microbiology who cared deeply about patients.

In the 1980’s he met Sandra, who became his wife, along with stepdaughter Jennifer DeMoss. As a former band nerd, William enjoyed Jennifer’s musical recitals and band competitions. He was a happy “Michigan Dad” after she graduated from the University of Michigan.

William always had a soft spot for family pets. He loved musicals and classical music, and could often be heard blasting Handel’s “Messiah,” or “Phantom of the Opera” at full volume in his study. He was a history buff who seemed to know a little bit about everything. William is sorely missed.

He’s survived by his wife, stepdaughter, three naughty cats, and family members in Mississippi and all over the country. We hope you celebrate his life by spending quality time with your loved ones.