William "Billy" Taney

William "Billy" Taney of Vadnais Heights, MN, passed away surrounded by family on Friday, April 4th 2025, at the age of 73. Billy was born on August 5th 1951, to Nick and Eunice Taney and grew up a proud, long time Rice Street resident. He was a graduate of Washington High School in 1969 and joined IBEW local 110 in August 1974. Billy took great pride in being a member and served in office for Local 110. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Eunice; his infant brother; and his twin baby daughters. Billy is survived by his loving wife Carol; children, Jason McCain, Ashley (Brian) Brown; grandchildren, Max, Charli, Leo and Levi; sister, Judy (Ron) Troye; nieces, Laura (Chris) Studenski, Christa (Chris) Casey; great nieces, Emma, Andra, Molly, Clara; great nephew, Nick; and so many other beloved family and friends.

Billy married the love of his life (Carol) on April 13th, 1984. Together they raised Ashley and Jason in Vadnais Heights, MN. Their home quickly became the hangout for all their wonderful neighbors and old friends. Family meant everything to Billy. He and Carol enjoyed their trips to the casino, or just hanging out at a local establishment. The two of them also cherished annual trips to Iowa to visit family. He made sure his children Ashley & Jason were provided with a good life, and so much love. Billy especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren. He was always willing to make pancakes, chocolate frosting or bake cookies whenever they were coming to the house. Cooking and baking were a tradition passed down in the Taney family. Billy and Carol made a 2nd home in Fort Myers Beach, Florida and were able to spend the wonderful Minnesota winters on the beach in their retirement. In Florida they found a whole new set of lifelong friends as Billy & Carol had an uncanny ability to create friends and turn them into family no matter where they went. As a lifelong MN Twins fan, Billy was able to enjoy several Twins spring training games and attended Minnesota day in Fort Myers for several years with family and friends.

He loved to bake, grill, cook and entertain for others. You could always find Billy working on the grill cooking chicken at gatherings of family and friends. From cookies to cocktails, Billy always had the best recipes. Even in Billy's final months his contagious smile and laugh were a memory that all his family and friends will remember forever. Billy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend.

Billy was a very proud, hardworking IBEW union member for over 50 years. He always looked for the "Made in America" tag when shopping for anything. He wanted us to give a final shoutout to 4 of his favorite Retired Brothers. Dick Vitelli from Local 110 Saint Paul, Jim Marold Local 292 Minneapolis, Jim Brown Local 242 Duluth, and Greg Topel Local 294 Hibbing. In retirement this group gathered twice a year for brotherhood, reminiscing, laughter, good food, and occasionally a few drinks. Bill cherished their friendship.

"To Infinity and beyond"

A celebration of life will be held Friday, May 30th 2025 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the IBEW Local 110, 1330 Conway Street, Saint Paul, MN.