William Robert Piele

William Robert Piele, known as Robert to some and William to others, passed away from causes related to stage 4 liver cancer on January 12, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on February 25, 1964, Robert grew up with a deep curiosity about the world and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He completed a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Canada Montreal mission (French-speaking) despite severe health problems caused by ulcerative colitis. In addition to French, he learned German well enough to enjoy conversations with people while visiting relatives in Germany during a memorable vacation there with his father.

Robert graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics. His passion for physics and scientific exploration stayed with him throughout his life. He loved working in his home laboratory, where he conducted experiments, built intricate devices, and even crafted a 10-inch Newtonian telescope, hand-grinding its mirror with meticulous care. He specialized in optics, and his knowledge helped him become a highly skilled amateur photographer.

Photography was another of Robert’s great passions. He delighted in discussing every detail of cameras and lenses, always eager to share his expertise. A talented musician, he played clarinet, saxophone, guitar, and mandolin, blending his love for music with his scientific mind by studying the physics of sound and how it interacted with different environments.

Robert loved the outdoors. He especially loved camping in the Wind Rivers area.

Robert lived in Salt Lake City until 1999, when he moved to Idaho. Most recently, he worked part-time as a math tutor at the College of Eastern Idaho (CEI), where he found immense joy in teaching and sharing his knowledge with others. The family is grateful to the college and its students. The college plans to create and place a memorial tile with his name on the campus.

He is survived by his five siblings: David (Janis), Charles (Teresa), Janet (Robert), Susan (Scot), and Sophie (Craig). Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Gerald.

Robert will be remembered for his brilliant mind, boundless curiosity, and generous spirit. He was always ready to share his discoveries, whether in science, photography, or music, and his love of learning inspired everyone who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Robert’s memory to the College of Eastern Idaho, the University of Utah, the educational program of your choice, or medical research, especially cancer.

The family is planning a private memorial service in Salt Lake City to honor Robert’s life on February 22, 2025.