Bill Oesterle, Co-Founder of Angie’s List, Passes Away at 57 With Deep Condolences To Family and Society
Bill Oesterle, the co-founder of Angie’s List, passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind great contributions in the technological field, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. His family confirmed the news of his passing on Sunday, May 14th, 2023. Oesterle had an extensive history of heart-related issues, which eventually led to his untimely demise.
Oesterle had ventured into the world of technology in 1995 when he co-founded Angie’s List with Angie Hicks. The company started as a call-in service for customers seeking recommendations for local service providers like plumbers, electricians, contractors, and more. Oesterle transitioned the company from a purely call-in service to an online website, becoming one of the pioneers of online review platforms. Angie’s List went public in 2011, and two years later, he resigned from the company to pursue his passion for politics, which he believed could positively influence people’s lives just as technology had done.
Oesterle’s political career began as deputy chief of staff for former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels in 2012, where he served for two years, bringing a business perspective to the political field. Oesterle believed that government could play a significant role in people’s lives, and that entrepreneurship and innovation could also be applied to the public sector. He was known for being an advocate of putting people, rather than political parties, first.
In 2014, he started a non-profit organization called “Hoosiers for Economic Growth” with the primary aim of promoting economic growth and job creation in Indiana. The success of his non-profit led him to run for the governor’s position in 2016, but he eventually withdrew from the race, citing personal reasons. His decision to run for the governor’s position was proof that he cared deeply about empowering people through public service, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and policymakers alike.
Oesterle’s passing will be mourned by many, not only for his contributions to the technological and political fields, but also for his benevolent acts of philanthropy. Oesterle was known for his charitable giving, particularly to the arts and education sectors. He was a Chairman of the Board of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, where he used his business skills to help them grow and expand. He was also a big supporter of higher education and was a trustee of DePauw University, his alma mater.
The passing of Bill Oesterle serves as a reminder of his remarkable life and his passion for making an impact in people’s lives. His contributions to the industries he worked in have left their marks and continue to influence the current technological and political landscape. His philanthropic acts show us how a successful entrepreneur can give back to society in a meaningful way. The world has lost a great mind, but his legacy and impact will remain forever. Our deepest condolences go to his family and everyone whose life he touched.