William E. Welsby

Born on January 12, 1930, in Rockford Illinois. Bill was the first of five children born to Earl and Elanora Welsby with four sisters to follow. For 95 years, Bill spread love and joy leaving wonderful memories for his family and friends to cherish. One of his greatest pleasures was the re-telling of notable moments in his life. On December 7, 1941, in the parlour of a farmhouse, Bill listened on the Atwater Kent radio as Roosevelt delivered his historic speech "a date that will live in infamy. In the 1950's as a young engineer working in New York City, he sat in a lounge listening to Sammy Davis, Jr. play a drum solo to a hushed crowd. Bill loved his work, but so enjoyed his play time: hunting, fishing, and skiing. At Christmas, family and friends were treated to his much anticipated caramel corn. Bill had a kind heart for animals. While living in Orchard Park, he noticed a disturbance in the backyard pond. With a log lifter, he rescued a litter of baby skunks that had slipped into the water, delivering them safely to their Mom. He was always caring for orphaned animals, rabbits, squirrels and baby birds. It is a comfort to know he is now at peace with beloved family dogs, Sparkle, Max, Riley, Happy, Peanut, Daisy and Peti. But Bill's life story would not be complete without mention of his greatest pleasure. He played college basketball at the University of Illinois and maintained this love throughout his life. For many years Bill played basketball with his cherished O.P. basketball buddies. Their practice efforts paid off, as they competed throughout New York State and won several medals in the senior Olympics. At the end of the day as nighttime slowly gathers and sunlight slowly leaves, peace and comfort is our blessing. Married to Kathleen (Kit), he raised and nurtured four children: Pamela (Richard) Goldblatt, Deborah Welsby, Wesley, (Christie) Welsby and Jennifer (Michael) Giambra. He was endlessly proud to be a Grandfather (Poppie) to 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.