William R Kissel.

Bill Kissel was my father-in-law. He passed away unexpectedly on June 6th 2012.                                 While still attending high school at Cass Tech in Detroit he did cancer research. Bill earned several degrees from the University of Michigan. He had a full ride scholarship paid by Ford Motor company. After graduation Ford dragged its feet finding him a position. He ended up taking a job with Chrysler. In the 70s Bill developed Chrysler's first electronic ignition system. He was able to use the Dodge stock car teams to develop the system. Rubbing elbows with the Pettys, and Junior Johnson. He told me Richard once threatend to run him over if the system didn't work! He holds close to 15 patents that we know of. He has more patents for the government that are classified.                         Even though he retired 13 years ago Chrysler's current engine controllers still use logic that he developed. Many of his former colleagues attending the funeral used words like mentor, teacher and even father figure. He had a fiery temper and a great sense of humor. He is greatly missed by family, friends and former colleagues.  I wrote this shortly after his death but never published it.  I guess I didn't feel it does him justice.  I still feel the same way but it should be posted.