William Fuentes

William Fuentes died on October 12th after a long illness. He was 79 years old. Known as Bill to his friends and family, he is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Linda, his children Jennifer, Heather and Stephanie, his four grandchildren, Lana, Ben, Maxwell and Henry, and his dogs, Mabel and Molly.

Bill had a big personality, and loved talking with people. We will miss his stories. Bill loved to reminisce about growing up in Spanish Harlem and the Bronx. He was a proud New Yorker, who always said New York is the greatest city in the world. Bill loved the Yankees and tolerated the Mets out of respect for his wife. He loved classic movies and cars, and had an encyclopedic knowledge of nearly every car made since his youth in the 1940s and 50s. He loved Lionel trains, opera, Broadway - especially the Phantom of the Opera - and Jewish history. He liked to sing when he ironed and in the car, loudly and with feeling. Although his daughters are now middle aged, he would still call to remind them to wear a sweater when it was cold outside.

Since retiring from his decades of service as a radiology administrator, Bill enjoyed retired life and spending time with his family. He rode his scooter around town, visiting with friends. He traveled on cruises, to the Outer Banks, and to Florida. His happy places were Bear Mountain, Captree State Park and Disney World, where he seemed to be the only person to really adore the It's a Small World ride; he would even sing along. But mostly, Bill was happiest when he was with his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.