He was born June 9, 1947 in Hancock, New York to William and Eileen (Esolen) Hartgrove.
He graduated from Hancock Central School Class of 1965, Simmons School of Embalming and Mortuary Science class of 1966.
He completed his residency at Walter D. Sullivan Funeral Home in Binghamton, New York, he then moved to Long Island before making it to Frank E. Campbells "The Funeral Chapel" where he spent many years. He next moved into Compliance and Training for the then Eastern Division of SCI based in Manhattan, but traveled extensively. In 1997 he moved to Florida and became the Director of Compliance and Training for National Cremation Society. After that he was Compliance for SCI-Florida. As he semi-retired he still performed funeral home and cemetery audits and occasionally filed in meeting families and working services giving 50 + years to SCI.
He and his partner of 40 + years Gerry O'Rawe travelled the world together. They always took pride in their homes in New York and later in Florida. They were the life of the party. I'm sure on Monday morning Gerry greeted Bill with a Vodka and said "What the F%#! took you so long."
Bill had many talents and interests, In New York he worked at a friends flower shop because he enjoyed making the arrangements. He was always proud of his gardens and yards. He also liked to Knit/crochet and made many blankets/sweaters and other things over the years, many he gave as gifts.
If Bill was your friend, he was your friend forever.
Bill was lucky enough to find Justin, and when he did he found happiness again. Even though it was a short time, it had made a major impact. Justin gave him the reason to fight for the last year.
Bill was predeceased by his partner Gerry (1/3/2018); parents William and Eileen and sister Mary "Mickey" Hartgrove.
Surviving are sister Sharon A. Gales; nephew Paul (Vicki) Gales, Justin; Gerry's brother, nephews and niece, several cousins.
A memorial service will be held at Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 950 Chiquita Blvd. S., Cape Coral Florida, on Friday, April 9th, gathering from 10am - 11am, service at 11am followed by a luncheon.
Please wear bright colors, no black per Bill's request.
Contributions can be made to the Cape Animal Shelter, 325 SW 2nd Ave, Cape Coral, Florida 33991 or the Hancock Rescue Squad PO Box 693, Hancock, New York 13783
