William Cornelius

Birth date: Feb 13, 1947 Death date: Dec 31, 2010

William M. Cornelius, 63, of Clinton, died Friday, December 31, 2010, at Mercy Medical Center, North Campus – Clinton. Memorial Services will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, January 5, 2010, at the Clinton Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Ho Read Obituary

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Marcia Waite

605w ago

I was thinking about my wonderful High school band experiences in Maquoketa in the '70s, and looked up Mr. Cornelius online. So sad to learn of his passing. I just wanted to post that it was so great to to have trained with him. I'll always remember that he gave me a shiny school trumpet to replace my horrible old cornet, and that inspired me to work hard to achieve the lead spot in the trumpet section. I coincidentally ended up marrying a school band director in the '90s and I shared many funny stories about 'Corny' with him. I lost him to cancer in 2010, also. But I still have a trumpeter - my son is a great trumpet player and heads to High School in July. Hoping to create many more band memories, and Mr. Cornelius will always be among my favorite memories!
Marcia Waite - MCHS '76

Jim Deprizio

779w ago

Sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was much too young. I just read the information today on the IBA site (jan. 30) I taught in Keokuk when Bill was teaching in Ottumwa. He was always encouraging and easy to talk to. His bands were always very outstanding, but more than that he was nice to me when I was a green horn. I later interviewed with him for the band position in Clinton when he was the principal. It was the last time I spoke to him in person other than facebook. My memories of Bill are fond. As I write I am getting more sad, he is with God now.

Lisa Owens

779w ago

Extending my deepest sympathies to the Cornelius family. I have many warm memories of Mr. C, from his visits to junior high band activities to all he did for his band students at OHS. He had that rare gift of being able to command the respect of his "kids" while also relating to them on a more personal level - sincerely and with good humor. He clearly loved the music and knew what the overall experience of the discipline, learning, and participation brought to students' lives.

I am so sorry for the family's loss.

Jodie Butler

779w ago

Bill was such a supportive person of young teachers and new leaders. As one of teachers, I was fortunate to have served with him during my days on the IMEA board and as the first exec of the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education. I hope Linda and her daughters will know we valued his leadership, insight, and support and his thoughtful approach to everything he did.

May you find comfort in knowing how many people his life touched!

Eileen Ruddy Isenhoff

779w ago

To the family of Mr. C ~ Linda and girls may you feel the love and comfort of God during this time of loss. I played violin and saw my sister in band having so much fun so I started with the bassoon and played cymbals during the marching season. Mr. C was a super teacher, firm yet gentle - he found the balance. I also remember you, Linda and girls, being around and active. I am sure Mr. C is an angel in heaven. Our prayers are with you. God Bless!

Kyle Johnson

779w ago

I had a great deal of respect for Mr. Cornelius--both as a principal and an individual. I remember a time when I printed an article in the school newspaper that should have never been printed, and while it could have been a very negative situation, he was extremely supportive and turned it into a positive learning experience. He was always fair and friendly, and he will definitely be missed!

Francie Hill

779w ago

Linda, Christie and Cady:
How we will miss Bill! He always saw the big picture -- with his camera and with his mind's eye! He kept us on our toes with deadlines and ideas. We will look for him at every Arts at the Arb concert .. I remember how he taught us that the musicians needed a ride to the site and bottles of water. Again the big picture as he knew what the audience and the performers both needed.
We have many memories which will help us as you do in days to come.
With love,
Francie

Linda Blount

779w ago

Linda and girls - My heart aches for you. Bill and his caring and his many, many talents will surely be greatly missed. Don't hesitate to lean on the love of your friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jody Hovey Brandenburg

779w ago

So sorry for your great loss. I remember when you were both young teachers and got married. BJ and Corny as we lovingly refered to you. A group of us spent a lot of time in the band room receiving life's lessons from a wonderful teacher.

John And Mary Graziano

779w ago

Linda and family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

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