In Loving Memory

William Hrusa, 71 — Beloved Professor, Father, and Grandfather

William Hrusa, 71, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, in Boca Raton, Florida, after a life shaped by intellectual curiosity, devotion to his family, and a lifelong love of the water.

Bill was born on January 16, 1955, in Darien, Connecticut, to Nancy and John Hrusa, the eldest of three brothers. Even as a boy, the qualities that would define him were already there: a sharp mind, a steady work ethic, and a pull toward the outdoors. He marched in the school band, spent hours at the local marina, and took to everything he did with focus.

His academic path was a remarkable one. Bill earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and mechanical engineering from Syracuse University, followed by a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Brown. In 1982 he joined the faculty of Carnegie Mellon University as an assistant professor, beginning a career that would span more than four decades and shape generations of students. Mathematics was never just a job to Bill. It was something he genuinely loved, and that love came through every time he stepped into a classroom.

Bill retired from Carnegie Mellon in 2025 and moved to Florida to be closer to his daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter. He spent his final year doing exactly what he had hoped to do: surrounded by family.

When he wasn’t teaching, Bill was happiest on the water. Summer weekends at Conneaut Lake, with the boat in and the sun out, were some of the best days of his life.

Most of all, Bill was a father. His children, Sarah and Daniel, were the center of his world, and the arrival of his granddaughter Mia brought him such joy.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Nancy and John Hrusa, and his beloved brother, Tom Hrusa. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Hrusa (Adam Castro); his son, Daniel Hrusa (T Mackey); his granddaughter, Mia Castro; his brother, Brooks Hrusa (Kelli Kole); his sister-in-law, Denise Farley (Mark Farley); and his nephews, Chris Hrusa and Rex Hrusa.

Bill lived a full life of learning, love, and time on the open water. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made to the William J. Hrusa Research and Education Fund , honoring Bill’s passion to support students.