Williams Peter Pawelko, 79 of Lawrenceburg, TN, passed away on January 15, 2026, after an extended illness. He was born March 28, 1946, in Manhattan, NY to his beloved late parents Paul and Sadie (Shupchuk) Pawelko.

He was very proud of being full blooded Ukrainian with both sets of grandparents immigrating to the USA. He grew up in a Ukrainian Burrough of NY City and attended Catholic schools. In high school he was an outstanding basketball player, highly recruited by colleges. He had been planning to attended St. john University on an offered scholarship but instead of following his dream, life circumstances led him to the Vietnam War at 17 years old. He joined the Air Force and served as a forward controller in Vietnam, becoming one of the few among his friends to survive. He was forever affected by the experience, as were many Vietnam Vets.

He also worked as a railroad engineer and an air conditioning technician. He enjoyed friends and family, watching sports, and discussing politics. He loved bass fishing and traveling. People and family have said that “You could count on him in a pinch.” He was especially concerned about the war in Ukraine and often stated he wanted to go fight for Ukraine.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son William P Pawelko Jr., his stepdaughter Lisa Brown, his older brother Paul Pawelko, a NY City Policeman.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Kathryn Threlkeld Pawelko. He did not believe in “step” children, so he is also survived by his daughters Katie Threlkeld, Holly Morrison and son David Pawelko. His older sons Jeff Pawelko and Paul Pawelko, grandchildren include Alyssa Morrison, Ryan McNabb, Caleb Pawelko, Brandon Pawelko, Anthony Brown, Lindsay Brown and Tori Pawelko. Great Grandchildren include Tristan Brown and Nyla Brown.

Bill was very grateful to “step” daughter Holly Morrison who was his Power of Attorney for healthcare and oversaw his care with devotion and integrity.

Bill and Kathy were also grateful to elder law attorney Paul Plant, Amedisys Home Health, the staff members at the nursing home who cared so much and to Compassus Hospice, particularly Makayla, who was very excellent and special.

A private celebration of life service will be announced at a later date.

The family has entrusted Williams Funeral Home of Columbia with the final arrangements.