William Mark “Bill” Resnick
December 12, 1956 – August 8, 2023
Bill was born in Miami, FL to Jerome and Selma Resnick, on December 12, 1956. He was born on the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe and shares a birthday with Frank Sinatra, whose music he loves. He became interested in music at the age of 3, sitting at the piano with his dad watching him playing classical music. Bill’s uncle, Herb Resnick, played oboe and toured with several orchestras. Bill studied piano and played trombone in the Miami High School Band. He also played double bass in the school orchestra, as well as the jazz band. While in high school his music teacher was so impressed by his musical composition and arrangements skills, he asked his young student to help him with a composition he was working on for his own graduate studies. Bill had the lead role in the high school musical production of “Hair”. He learned to speak fluent Spanish from the influence of the many Cuban Americans he was associated with. Bill became proficient in not only piano and trombone, but trumpet, electric bass, and organ. He toured with a famous band at the time and the furthest he traveled for a tour was Japan. He played in one of the top Cuban bands in Miami. Bill’s passion later on was playing in jazz ensembles. Bill’s son Justin is a gifted musician and has a degree in music therapy. Bill’s mother passed away when he was 13 years old. His father told him he needed to get serious about pursuing a career he could earn a living and not to make being a musician his whole focus. Bill decided his career to please his dad and decided to train to be a piano technician. He found a way to earn a living and still be around pianos. Years later he would take the exam and become a registered piano technician. He has done various concert tunings for famous artists. He submitted an article for publication on “The Painless Pitch Raise” to the Pianos Technicians Guild. They published his article. He moved from Miami to Maryland several years earlier. He played at Brookmanor Country Club in Olney, MD, where he and his wife had their first date, 35 years ago. He loved horses and owned a thoroughbred horse and an appaloosa. He showed in hunter jumper competitions. He wanted a bigger challenge, so he trained his thoroughbred for steeplechase racing. Bill, with a lot discipline got himself in jockey condition by losing enough weight to qualify and meet jockey requirements. He ran several steeplechase races, jockeying his own horse. Years later he wanted a new challenge. He wanted to “ride with hounds”. He was accepted in the Bull Run Hunt, aa foxhunting club recognized by the Masters of the Foxhound Association of North America. They hunted on land in Culpeper, Madison, Orange, and Spotsylvania counties in Virginia. He also loved fine cuisine and to cook, so he took classes at the NY Culinary Institute. Bill and his wife moved to Calvert County, MD and were married at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church on December 30, 1995. They would have celebrated 28 years of marriage this year. It wasn’t until 10 years later, Bill enrolled in RCIA classes at Jesus the Good Shepherd to become Catholic. He joined the music ministry and sang in the 10:45 AM choir. Years later he would become the accompanist for the 5:00 PM youth choir mass. While in RCIA Bill was given the book on Catechism of the Catholic church. Bill read the book cover to cover in 2 weeks. He absorbed everything he read and could recite Catholic Doctrine at a moments notice. He became quite the Catholic apologist. After being received in the church at Easter Vigil Mass in 2006 he didn’t waste time. He joined several Bible study groups and continued in the music ministry. He started the Cenacle of Divine Mercy and introduced the Patriotic Rosary. He joined the Knights of Columbus and became a 4th Degree Knight. He wanted to teach candidates for confirmation, but didn’t have time to take the classes required for taking the Catechist test. Bill knew Catholic Doctrine and was very rooted in knowledge of scripture. He asked to take the test without the classes and passed with high grades. He taught confirmation for a few years. He played for the Latin Mass at St. Francis in Benedict, MD and found a passion in the traditional Mass setting. He attended the men’s retreat at Loyola and later would play the Mass for Priests retreat. He became the Director of Music at St. Peter’s in Waldorf, MD. He auditioned for a place in the Papal Mass Choir for the Washington visit of Pope Benedict. He was accepted in the choir singing in the bass section. He taught bass and piano at Garrett Music Academy and previously taught piano technology at the University of Maryland. He was a proud member of the Sons of the American Legion in Chesapeake Beach. Bill had a passion for competitive shooting. He joined the 12th Precinct Pistol Club in Harwood, MD. He participated weekly in the pistol and 45 matches. He competed in the Camp Perry national matches. He attained expert status in later years. From his days at Jordan Kitts Music, where he worked on rebuilding and refurbishing pianos. That led him to work at Wood Creations. He became a cabinet maker. He would later start his own business, while still tuning pianos as a part time job. He has worked with Habitat for Humanity and Christmas in April, giving back to the community he loved. His best friend Frank whom he thought of as a brother offered him an apprenticeship at Medart Gallery in Dunkirk. He would help Teresa in the store front when she was caring for her ill dad. Bill had a love of life and loved to learn and excel in whatever endeavors he embarked on. He loved baseball, classic Corvettes, anything having to do with WWII, animals, gardening, reading, fine cuisine, and cooking. He loved his “mandates” with his close buddies. His energy and enthusiasm for life is why his passing is such a loss to many. Don’t worry, Bill has achieved his goal in life and that is to be with our Lord Jesus Christ and our Blessed Mother. We can be assured that he has reached his mountain top and is singing with the Heavenly Choir. Knowing Bill, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he asks St. Michael for an apprenticeship to fight the battle alongside of him.
Bill is survived by his wife Mary Ellen Resnick, son Justin Resnick, sister Susan Dori Resnick, brother Peter Resnick and wife Peggy, sister-in-law Tessa Resnick, nephews Adam, Alec, Yoni, and Ayal Resnick, and Robert Goyones, and Godchildren Juliette and Charlotte Garrett. He was preceded in death by his parents Selma and Jerome Resnick and a brother Robert Resnick.
Visitation
Wednesday, August 16, 2023
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Services
- Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, August 17, 2023
11:00 AM
Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church
1601 W Mt Harmony Road
Owings, MD 20736
Contributions
Condolences
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9 Aug 2023
10:17pm
To Bill’s wife and family,
Bill was a shining light in this world, sharing his talents in carpentry and music with the community. We are so sorry to hear of his passing.
With love and deepest condolences,
The Murray Family Paul, Jean, Aidan, Liam, and Kellan
City
Sunderland
State
Md
9 Aug 2023
11:29pm
Prayers of comfort for your family and friends as you face the coming days. Bill is a memorable person who was passionate about his piano and organ playing skills. I was always memorized watching him play for our choir. Sending love and prayers 
????????
City
Sunderland
State
Maryland
10 Aug 2023
10:18am
Dear Family,
You have my condolences and I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers. Bill tuned my piano and we became fast friends through the gift of music.
Bill came and tuned my piano, then afterwards he played it. As I heard the beautiful hymns and gospel songs of the black church, I was drawn into the room. Bill kept playing and I starting singing. He was excited to play and I was excited to sing! He wanted to show me he knew the songs I cherished – black sacred music. He could play anything. We sang and played for a while, then we talked about his journey and some of his biggest trials and triumphs in life. It became clear to me that he was an extraordinary human being – full of life, love and music. We need more people like this in the world.
A couple of months later, he invited me to sing at the Catholic mass on Christmas Day. I was so excited to sing new songs, in a new place, with new friends, across cultural lines! I wanted to show I knew a little about Latin and singing at a Catholic mass, even though I grew up baptist. Most of all, I felt very welcome singing with Bill. He was very gracious and down to earth.
I was so excited to sing with Bill in mass that I changed my Christmas plans. I changed my airline departure to a later time on Christmas Day to see out-of-town family. Bill, the maestro and my friend, had invited me to sing at an important high holy occasion. It was the highlight of my Christmas – to sing about the savior in a Roman Catholic Mass. I learned so much and felt lifted by the whole experience.
We connected across cultural lines through our shared love of music, especially classical, gospel, jazz and anything piano. ???? ????
I am very grateful for the life of Bill Resnick. May he rest in peace as he goes from labor to reward.
City
Mitchellville
State
MD
10 Aug 2023
11:14am
Bill was one of the most creative, coordinated people I’ve ever seen grace the keys. I will miss his immature humor, his restless disposition, and especially whenever he’d make a mistake, he would exclaim “oh God, I’m sorry” loudly in the middle of the song. Thank you for years of laughter and music Bill. The world has lost a treasure. Love and healing to his family.
City
Mechanicsville
State
MD
10 Aug 2023
6:12pm
Bill will be overwhelmingly and sorely missed by me and also the whole JGS choir. Over the years he also tuned my piano and actually framed a beautiful picture that hangs over my fireplace. His craftsmanship was impeccable. He was never content to play the music as written, but usually added thrills and runs to liven up the music, and it was all for the glory of God. You could tell he was just being his creative self. When Bill walked into a room he brought love, laughter and fun. It was like he couldn’t contain the joy that his love for the Lord had placed in his heart. It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to such a treasure.???? My condolences to his family.
City
Owings
State
Maryland
11 Aug 2023
6:19am
When I first met Bill I was genuinely moved by his conviction and belief in Jesus. He loved the Divine Mercy Chaplet which I can still hear his voice singing. He was a faith filled Christian. He had a wit about him that most people missed. Love to you, Mary Ellen. JoAnne May God give you strength as you walk this road, With prayers and sympathy, JoAnne and Richard Alu
City
Dunkirk
State
MD
12 Aug 2023
4:03pm
Bill taught me piano lessons at Garrett Music Academy for about 8 years. He was engaging, funny, talented, and and a true musical artist. We had a lot of laughs as I plunked along in my beginner music books, but I eventually got much better under Bill’s guidance. He was also a skilled carpenter and woodworker. He played piano at some local restaurants, weddings, art galleries, and his church. He also told fascinating stories about his growing up in Miami and experiences with other musicians, and about the time he sang for Pope Benedict when the Pope came to DC. To Bill’s family — He truly loved you and his God. His hands and his heart were his livelihood. Fly high, Bill, and take part in an amazing jam session with the angels.
City
Prince Frederick, MD
State
MD
13 Aug 2023
10:38pm
Bill always arrived early to church and when I’d arrive early he would be playing the piano. He was always so kind and cheerful. He could transmit so much joy when playing our weekly Spanish Sunday mass and had so much love for our Spanish community. Walking into the church these last two weeks have not been the same. He was a true gift for our parish. He is being missed greatly and is in my prayers. I pray that his family and loved ones find peace in Our Lord and may the memories of Bill bring joy and comfort.
City
Waldorf
State
Maryland
14 Aug 2023
3:07pm
Although I did not know Bill personally, he was an important part of my weekend mass experience at Jesus the Good Shepherd. His piano and organ playing added such joy to my mass experience. You could tell just by watching him how much he loved what he was doing, and it was such a pleasure to just listen. I particularly loved his music during Christmas time, which was so uplifting and fun. I’m sure there are many other parishioners like me who only knew Bill from afar, but we still knew of him through his beautiful music. There is now an empty seat in our church that cannot be replaced, and I, for one, will feel this loss. My prayers for Bill and his family.
City
Owings
State
Maryland
14 Aug 2023
8:42pm
To Mary and Family, Reflecting on the mosaic of moments we shared with Bill, one memory stands out: a conversation where he humbly downplayed his musical journey, claiming to be “a nobody who knows nobody.” Little did we realize the depth of his talents and accomplishments, hidden behind his modest words. A master craftsman, he not only shaped wood but also the lives he touched. In the past week, as I delved into his life story, I discovered the multifaceted person he was. A teacher, a creator, a community pillar—he embraced these roles with a passion that left an indelible mark. Bill’s spirit was unbridled, fearlessly taking on challenges and living life to the fullest. He was far from ordinary; his journey was an extraordinary tale that he graciously allowed us to be part of. As we bid farewell to his earthly presence, may his laughter and wisdom continue to resonate in our hearts. The lessons he imparted through his actions will be our guiding light. During this time of grieving, may the memories of his vibrant life bring comfort to your hearts. As Bill embarks on his next adventure, may he find the peace he so deserves, and may the same peace embrace you as you navigate the path forward.
With deepest sympathy, Alice Darling and Family
City
Huntingtown
State
Maryland
15 Aug 2023
1:30pm
LeAnne and I are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary Ellen and his family.
City
Princeton
State
Texas
17 Aug 2023
1:55pm
Bill was a talented, kind, and faith-filled man. I enjoyed singing at Mass at St. Peter’s with him as the accompanist very much. It was always a transcendent and beautiful experience. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort to his loved ones.
City
Greenville
State
SC
16 Sep 2023
5:24pm
I have a lot to say, but I will keep it short and sweet; Bill brought me from being a very average to an advanced piano player. I worked with him for a few years and he helped me improve so much. I’ve never met anyone who made me enjoy piano as much as him. When he retired, we were working on Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu, which was the piece I wanted to play all my life. I wouldn’t have ever dreamed of playing that song without his teachings. He never got to hear me play it. I finished it in his honor, and I wish I could’ve said thank you, one more time.
City
Owings
State
MD
Sort Comments
To Bill’s wife and family,
Bill was a shining light in this world, sharing his talents in carpentry and music with the community. We are so sorry to hear of his passing.
With love and deepest condolences,
The Murray Family Paul, Jean, Aidan, Liam, and Kellan
Prayers of comfort for your family and friends as you face the coming days. Bill is a memorable person who was passionate about his piano and organ playing skills. I was always memorized watching him play for our choir. Sending love and prayers
????????
Dear Family,
You have my condolences and I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers. Bill tuned my piano and we became fast friends through the gift of music.
Bill came and tuned my piano, then afterwards he played it. As I heard the beautiful hymns and gospel songs of the black church, I was drawn into the room. Bill kept playing and I starting singing. He was excited to play and I was excited to sing! He wanted to show me he knew the songs I cherished – black sacred music. He could play anything. We sang and played for a while, then we talked about his journey and some of his biggest trials and triumphs in life. It became clear to me that he was an extraordinary human being – full of life, love and music. We need more people like this in the world.
A couple of months later, he invited me to sing at the Catholic mass on Christmas Day. I was so excited to sing new songs, in a new place, with new friends, across cultural lines! I wanted to show I knew a little about Latin and singing at a Catholic mass, even though I grew up baptist. Most of all, I felt very welcome singing with Bill. He was very gracious and down to earth.
I was so excited to sing with Bill in mass that I changed my Christmas plans. I changed my airline departure to a later time on Christmas Day to see out-of-town family. Bill, the maestro and my friend, had invited me to sing at an important high holy occasion. It was the highlight of my Christmas – to sing about the savior in a Roman Catholic Mass. I learned so much and felt lifted by the whole experience.
We connected across cultural lines through our shared love of music, especially classical, gospel, jazz and anything piano. ???? ????
I am very grateful for the life of Bill Resnick. May he rest in peace as he goes from labor to reward.
Bill was one of the most creative, coordinated people I’ve ever seen grace the keys. I will miss his immature humor, his restless disposition, and especially whenever he’d make a mistake, he would exclaim “oh God, I’m sorry” loudly in the middle of the song. Thank you for years of laughter and music Bill. The world has lost a treasure. Love and healing to his family.
Bill will be overwhelmingly and sorely missed by me and also the whole JGS choir. Over the years he also tuned my piano and actually framed a beautiful picture that hangs over my fireplace. His craftsmanship was impeccable. He was never content to play the music as written, but usually added thrills and runs to liven up the music, and it was all for the glory of God. You could tell he was just being his creative self. When Bill walked into a room he brought love, laughter and fun. It was like he couldn’t contain the joy that his love for the Lord had placed in his heart. It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to such a treasure.???? My condolences to his family.
When I first met Bill I was genuinely moved by his conviction and belief in Jesus. He loved the Divine Mercy Chaplet which I can still hear his voice singing. He was a faith filled Christian. He had a wit about him that most people missed. Love to you, Mary Ellen. JoAnne May God give you strength as you walk this road, With prayers and sympathy, JoAnne and Richard Alu
Bill taught me piano lessons at Garrett Music Academy for about 8 years. He was engaging, funny, talented, and and a true musical artist. We had a lot of laughs as I plunked along in my beginner music books, but I eventually got much better under Bill’s guidance. He was also a skilled carpenter and woodworker. He played piano at some local restaurants, weddings, art galleries, and his church. He also told fascinating stories about his growing up in Miami and experiences with other musicians, and about the time he sang for Pope Benedict when the Pope came to DC. To Bill’s family — He truly loved you and his God. His hands and his heart were his livelihood. Fly high, Bill, and take part in an amazing jam session with the angels.
Bill always arrived early to church and when I’d arrive early he would be playing the piano. He was always so kind and cheerful. He could transmit so much joy when playing our weekly Spanish Sunday mass and had so much love for our Spanish community. Walking into the church these last two weeks have not been the same. He was a true gift for our parish. He is being missed greatly and is in my prayers. I pray that his family and loved ones find peace in Our Lord and may the memories of Bill bring joy and comfort.
Although I did not know Bill personally, he was an important part of my weekend mass experience at Jesus the Good Shepherd. His piano and organ playing added such joy to my mass experience. You could tell just by watching him how much he loved what he was doing, and it was such a pleasure to just listen. I particularly loved his music during Christmas time, which was so uplifting and fun. I’m sure there are many other parishioners like me who only knew Bill from afar, but we still knew of him through his beautiful music. There is now an empty seat in our church that cannot be replaced, and I, for one, will feel this loss. My prayers for Bill and his family.
To Mary and Family, Reflecting on the mosaic of moments we shared with Bill, one memory stands out: a conversation where he humbly downplayed his musical journey, claiming to be “a nobody who knows nobody.” Little did we realize the depth of his talents and accomplishments, hidden behind his modest words. A master craftsman, he not only shaped wood but also the lives he touched. In the past week, as I delved into his life story, I discovered the multifaceted person he was. A teacher, a creator, a community pillar—he embraced these roles with a passion that left an indelible mark. Bill’s spirit was unbridled, fearlessly taking on challenges and living life to the fullest. He was far from ordinary; his journey was an extraordinary tale that he graciously allowed us to be part of. As we bid farewell to his earthly presence, may his laughter and wisdom continue to resonate in our hearts. The lessons he imparted through his actions will be our guiding light. During this time of grieving, may the memories of his vibrant life bring comfort to your hearts. As Bill embarks on his next adventure, may he find the peace he so deserves, and may the same peace embrace you as you navigate the path forward.
With deepest sympathy, Alice Darling and Family
LeAnne and I are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary Ellen and his family.
Bill was a talented, kind, and faith-filled man. I enjoyed singing at Mass at St. Peter’s with him as the accompanist very much. It was always a transcendent and beautiful experience. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort to his loved ones.
I have a lot to say, but I will keep it short and sweet; Bill brought me from being a very average to an advanced piano player. I worked with him for a few years and he helped me improve so much. I’ve never met anyone who made me enjoy piano as much as him. When he retired, we were working on Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu, which was the piece I wanted to play all my life. I wouldn’t have ever dreamed of playing that song without his teachings. He never got to hear me play it. I finished it in his honor, and I wish I could’ve said thank you, one more time.