William John Gorge Jr.

William J. “Bill” Gorge, Jr., age 70, of White Marsh, MD, passed away on May 28, 2025. He was the beloved father of Buffie and Kimberly (Brent); cherished grandfather of Shaun, Tristin, Angel, and Rhett; loving second father of Paul Beyer.

Bill was a lover of both land and sea.

From an early age, he was a sailor, spending his childhood exploring the Chesapeake Bay in a small dinghy. Many of those cherished days were spent at his grandmother’s waterfront home on Jones Creek in Sparrows Point. His love for the water stayed with him throughout his life, and in his later years, he kept his beloved sailboat in Georgetown, Delaware.

One of Bill’s favorite places on Earth was the beach. He spent every free moment soaking up the sun and sand in the little self-built paradise he lovingly called Heaven. If you couldn’t find him at home working or tinkering in his yard, you’d likely find him proudly relaxing at his cherished beach haven.

Bill spent most of his life working in small craft aviation. Alongside his father, William Sr., he repaired and rebuilt aircraft at Aldino Airport, which later became Harford Air. His love for aviation came from his father, and the two shared a deep bond over their passion. Both proudly kept airplanes in their yards—trophies of their dedication, craftsmanship, and love for flight.

Like his father, Bill was an inventor of many things. There wasn’t much he couldn’t refine, redesign, or improve. He spent his life figuring things out, understanding how they worked, and putting his brilliant mind to use in countless creative ways. His intelligence and unique perspective shone through in everything he did.

But above all else, Bill was a devoted father and grandfather. He raised his two daughters to be very much like him—curious, capable, and grounded. He found immense joy in watching his family, especially his grandchildren, enjoy the beach alongside him—finding serenity and happiness in the special place he so lovingly and happily created for all.

In his later years, as illness began to take its toll, Bill found comfort and companionship in his two loyal poodles, Bud and Jeff. They never left his side. Their presence brought him peace, guiding him through the challenges of his illness and offering a light when things grew dark. Their unconditional love helped him navigate the hardest moments with strength and grace.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at Schimunek Funeral Home Inc., 9705 Belair Rd. Nottingham, MD 21236 on Sunday, June 1, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A graveside service will be held Monday at 10:00 AM at Parkwood Cemetery. Those who wish may make memorial contributions in William’s name to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Attn: Donor Services, 5757 Waterford District Dr., Suite 310, Miami, FL 33126.