Bill was an amazing man who lived his life with selflessness and compassion for others. He always put others first, ahead of himself. He was an amazing husband, father, son, brother, and father-in-law. He was totally devoted to his family, community, and career. Bill met his wife, Gail, in high school, and they were married after college graduation in 1978. Together they had four children, Liz, Billy, Tommy, and Timmy, that Bill adored. He was involved in many aspects of their lives, and he was always there for them when they needed him. He was so proud to be their dad and would be so proud of them today.

Bill was appointed to the FDNY on November 12, 1989. He was initially assigned to Engine 79 in the Bronx, then Engine 236 in Brooklyn, before finally being assigned to Special Operations Command on Roosevelt Island. Bill was also a volunteer member of the Baldwin Fire Department, rising through the ranks to serve as chief of the department. He was later elected fire commissioner by the community. Bill was also involved with youth and high school sports organizations in Baldwin. He gave much of his time to his hometown community and loved doing so.

On September 11, 2001, Bill was at work when the planes hit the World Trade Center. He spent many hours at Ground Zero during the recovery effort and did not return home for many days. He, along with many others, struggled greatly in the days and weeks after with the enormity of the loss of so many friends. In time, Bill and his family viewed his survival as a gift. He was able to be part of many important milestones in his family, including graduations of each of his children and walking his daughter down the aisle at her wedding weeks before his death.

Bill passed away suddenly on July 1, 2007, from cancer that was attributed to his time spent at Ground Zero. Although he is missed more than we can express, he lives in our hearts eternally.