William “Bill” Fekete is a notable champion of the City of Portage with an impressive track record of service to his community. Starting from humble beginnings, Fekete would invest his career and livelihood in the health and well-being of Portage. Throughout his extensive years of service in work, politics, and education, Fekete’s love of Portage shone in every endeavor he undertook.
Fekete, a native of Gary, graduated high school in 1949. At the ripe age of 22, Fekete and his first wife began their careers in 1953 through ANCO (later Anderson Company) and later moved to Portage. Over the span of 37 years, he diligently contributed his skills and expertise to ANCO windshield wiper blades. Fekete worked his way up the ladder, obtaining roles like foreman, plant manager, and, finally, the director of manufacturing.
“After 60 years, I decided to retire from Anderson, but at the time I was not happy with my councilman,” said Fekete. “I decided I wanted to run for the position.”
In 1992, Fekete’s commitment to public service led him to venture into the realm of politics. After earning the trust and support of his constituents and the community, Fekete was elected as the 4th District Councilman.
“I felt that the odds were against me when I decided to run,” said Fekete. “I worked all summer and went door to door. When I ended up as a city councilman, I would always make sure that I would follow through on what I was committed to, such as supporting local school systems and upholding many areas of infrastructure.”
Fekete takes pride in being the first and only councilman at the time to vote against casino gambling in Portage. In upholding his decision, he cites the disadvantages gambling would bring to the community and the negative influence it could have on young people like his daughters. Serving a single term, Fekete dedicated himself to bettering the community and addressing the needs of his residents, especially for education.
“When you commit to something, make sure you stand with each other,” said Fekete. “You can always make a better Portage.”
Fekete’s passion for education led him to become a valuable member of the Portage Township Schools’ (PTS) Board of Education from 2002 to 2014. During his tenure, Fekete played an essential role in shaping the educational and athletic landscape of PTS.
“While on the school board, I was very close to Portage athletics,” said Fekete. “I am very proud to have accomplished a few things that needed to be accomplished. I worked alongside a project manager who helped pave the way for $400,000 to be used for projects for PTS. It would mostly be for issues that pertained to sports, like accessibility for the gym, the turf of the football field and adding on to the Portage High School Fieldhouse.”
Fekete further devoted his time and energy to countless boards and volunteer organizations. For 14 years, he served as a member of the Portage Stormwater and Utility Boards to improve the city’s infrastructure and environmental sustainability. Fekete also spent hours helping those in need at the Portage Food Pantry by providing essential resources. In addition, he served five years on Board for the Boys & Girls Club to help create safe and nurturing spaces for Portage kids to learn and grow. With a love for the great outdoors, Fekete also served on the Parks and Recreation Board for three years.
“I have come to learn a lot from the administrations and boards I have been a part of,” said Fekete. “Improving and committing to our educational system and building up programs has always been important to me.”
Fekete acquired a reputation for being personable with people, even receiving awards, such as at the PHS Marine Corp. Junior ROTC Ball and a key to the city ceremony. His contributions have been so widely recognized that, in 2019, he was appointed to fill a vacancy on the city council, serving for a remarkable 8 months. This honorary appointment is a testament to his lifelong legacy of community engagement and civic responsibility.
“I am very fortunate for all my years working with the best administration in Portage,” said Fekete.
Now 94, Fekete is happily retired and enjoys reminiscing on the memories his time in Portage has brought him. He is also especially proud of his family, which includes five daughters, three sons, 22 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Fekete’s journey demonstrates the power one person can have in making the city of Portage a better place for all who call it home.