William "Wela" Savala

Funeral services and Mass of Christian Burial for William “Wela” or “Bill” Savala, 90, of Davenport will be held at 9 am on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Davenport. Burial will be in National Cemetery, Rock Island. Visitation will be 3-6 pm on Wednesday at Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the church or Knights of Columbus.

Mr. Savala passed away Saturday, November 29, 2025, at MercyOne Genesis, Davenport.

Wela was born October 29, 1935, in Bettendorf, to Joseph and Felicitas (Carillo) Savala. He graduated from the former St. Ambrose Academy, where he excelled in athletics at football, basketball and baseball. After graduation he joined and served his country in the Army, proudly representing them in basketball as well.

Wela started working as a tool and die maker for John Deere Harvester Works in 1956 and retired in 1999.

One of Bill’s greatest joys in life was dancing with his beloved long-time companion, Shirley Kay. Together they shared more than 35 years of love, laughter, and steadfast companionship – a bond that brought light to both their lives until Shirley’s passing in 2015.

An avid golfer, Wela could be found on the course three times a week, always ready with a quick smile, a competitive spirit, and an appreciation for a well-struck shot. When he wasn’t golfing, he was often at the bowling alley, where he distinguished himself by rolling several perfect 300 games in the Knights of Columbus League, an accomplishment he was quietly proud of.

A loyal Iowa Hawkeye fan, he cheered faithfully through every season, celebrating the highs and taking the lows in stride. His commitment to service was equally steady. As an active 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, he devoted countless hours to their annual Tootsie Roll Fundraiser, working year after year to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His dedication reflected the generosity and kindness that defined him.

Survivors include his brother Alfred “Fred” (Eva) Savala of East Moline, and many nieces and nephews who fondly called him “Uncle Bill”.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Rebecca Castro, Lupe Segura, and Eloise Borgus, brothers Gabriel, Richard, Charles and Joseph Savala, and Sam Cordero.

Online remembrances may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.