William I. Barkan

Bill Barkan, a dedicated attorney, respected business professional, and passionate community advocate, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, at the age of 95. He was a lifelong Toledo resident whose career and personal contributions shaped both the legal and broader community in profound ways. Born in Detroit, Bill pursued his academic interests with dedication and distinction. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan in 1951. Bill continued his academic excellence at the University of Toledo College of Law, graduating magna cum laude in 1955.

Prior to commencing to practicing law in 1965, he was a Certified Public Accountant at a large independent firm in Toledo. He then practiced law at a firm that would later become Barkan & Robon, where he continued working 4 days a week, until his passing. He was deeply involved in several charitable and service organizations, dedicating his time and expertise to causes close to his heart. Outside of his professional and volunteer work, Bill was a man of varied interests. He had a love for travel, which took him to many parts of the world, and enjoyed the peaceful pleasures of gardening and woodworking. His hands-on approach to life extended to these hobbies, where he found solace and joy.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Andrea Barkan; nephew, Hal Barkan (Michelle); stepchildren, Julie Backus, Kathryn Chattin (Gene), Elizabeth Wilkins (Mark), Micheal Wilson, Steven Wilson, and Grant Wilson (Sarah); grandchildren, Amanda, Jessica, Alexis, Chelsea, Chris, Alan, Sarah Louise, Christopher, Katie, Kasie, Brandon, Blake, Cameron, Portia, Mackenzie, Serena, Grace and Samantha; great-grandchildren, Aidan, Anderson, Eloise, Adeline, Henry, Lettie, Nora, Christopher, Addelyn, Patrick, Tyler, Logan, Lylah, Amelia, Clara.

Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Marge, in 1985; and his second wife, Louise, in 2022; as well as by his daughters, Jan Barkan and Marci Levan.

His legacy of excellence in law, his contributions to the community, and his dedication to personal growth and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Temple Shomer Emunim, on Tuesday, September 9th, at 10:30 a.m. Those that wish to pay respects may do at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's honor to the Toledo Jewish Federation.

Arrangements by the Robert H. WICK/Wisniewski Funeral Home, (419)-535-5840.

www.wickfh.com
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William I. Barkan, please visit our floral store.