The Bethel-Tate Local School District joins our community in mourning the passing of Mr. William Bick, a devoted educator, veteran, and longtime community leader whose life embodied service, integrity and compassion.
“Mr. Bick was an incredible man who devoted his life to serving others - as a soldier, an educator, a coach and a leader. His influence will continue to shape our schools and community for generations to come,” Superintendent Melissa Kircher said.
In 1954, Mr. Bick began teaching history at Bethel-Tate Schools where he also coached multiple sports and even drove a school bus for several years. His dedication led him into school administration not only for Bethel-Tate Schools but also for Clermont Northeastern and Clermont County Educational Service Center. He returned to Bethel-Tate Schools and served as the district’s Superintendent for 13 years until his retirement in 1987. For his years of devoted service, the Bethel-Tate Board of Education named the district’s K-2 building after him.
At Bick Primary School, the message on the school marquee affectionately reads: “In Loving Memory of Mr. Bick; A Leader, Educator, and Friend; 1923-2025.”
Just two years ago, Bick Primary School hosted a grand celebration for Mr. Bick’s 100th birthday. This week, the school honored Mr. Bick with a moment of silence. Throughout the rest of this week, the staff is also wearing black ribbons as a remembrance of the incredible impact Mr. Bick had on the school community.
“Mr. Bick’s kindness, humility, and leadership made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” William Bick Primary School Principal Gregory Chandler said.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. His legacy will live on in the school that proudly bears his name and in the generations of students his work has inspired.