Dear ITEC Family,
We write to you with heavy hearts to inform you of the passing of ITEC Founder Dr. William H. Lippy, fondly known as Bill, on Saturday, June 29th at the age of 95. Bill was a remarkable man whose life was a testament to excellence, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his belief in tikkun olam, repairing the world. He leaves a legacy that resonates deeply within the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
Bill’s journey was one of exceptional achievement and deep-rooted compassion. As a pioneering otologist, he revolutionized surgical techniques for treating deafness, leaving an indelible mark on the medical field. His commitment to advancing healthcare extended globally, yet his annual volunteering in Israel revealed his profound connection to the country and its people. Since 1968, Bill dedicated two months each year to teaching his surgical methods to Israeli doctors, embodying his belief in giving back to the community.
Inspired by the resilience and challenges faced by Israelis, particularly in the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War, Bill envisioned a place where children could thrive beyond adversity. With determination and a personal loan, he founded ITEC alongside five other visionaries—a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education and sports. Today, ITEC is Israel’s largest social service agency for children, impacting over half a million young lives across 24 communities since its founding. Bill’s vision provided children opportunities for growth and learning and fostered a sense of community and hope during challenging times, which has never been more important than in the recent months following October 7th.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was a devoted family man to his beloved wife, Sandra, who was his partner in all endeavors, his four sons, David, Stephen, Brian, and Frank, as well as eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. This was evident in every aspect of his life, and Bill included his family in all his philanthropic work, including ITEC, support of the UJA, and commitment to JUMP START AMERICA, an organization Bill founded to increase the number of sales of American-made cars.
Bill was a talented and accomplished athlete who enjoyed playing sports in his limited ‘spare’ time. Even in this realm, his passion for tennis and sportsmanship inspired all who knew him, reflecting his competitive spirit and dedication to excellence.
Bill’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the values he instilled in others. His journey was defined by resilience, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to improving the world around him. His memory will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence, embrace diversity, and nurture the next generation with kindness and determination. May it forever be a blessing.
Baruch Dayan Ha’emet.
Remembering Bill Lippy Photo Gallery
