DOUGLAS, Mich.

William Theodore “Ted” Precht, 74, passed away Sept. 19, 2016, at home in Douglas, Michigan, after several short but serious illnesses and stays in the hospital.

Born Dec. 23, 1941, in Seymour, he was the son of Theodore and Irene Temple Precht, both of whom preceded him in death.

William attended Indiana University at Bloomington, studying political science. He spent the majority of his career in the Chicago-land area as a pioneering, self-employed computer programming consultant. He was instrumental in integrating computers into the daily operations of medical offices and worked with the state of Illinois unemployment office to solve critical system issues related to the issuance of state checks. He also developed data retrieval systems to allow bank customers to check their account balance over the phone.

He had a tremendous thirst for knowledge. He was an avid bridge player and had a profound knowledge of, and love for, classical music, science, social justice, and literature.

Survivors include his long-time companion and friend, Sandra L. Bartky of Douglas, Michigan; sister, Doryce (David) Farrar of Hendersonville, Tennessee; two children, Kevin (Kristin) Precht of Reston, Virginia, and Allison (Sara) Precht of Chicago; a grandchild, Geoffrey Theodore Hammond Precht; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Marlene (Don) Armstrong.

Interment will be private.

Donations may be made to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at 312-294-3000 or www.cso.org, the American Civil Liberties Union at 888-567-ACLU or www.aclu.org or the donor’s choice of charity.