William F. Foster

Born on May 10, 1937, in Derby, Connecticut, Bill was the beloved son of the late George and Julia Foster. At Notre Dame High School, Bill excelled as a three-sport athlete. As quarterback, Bill led the Fighting Irish to their first state championship and an undefeated season, establishing a legacy of leadership, determination, and teamwork that would remain with him throughout his life.

Bill continued his education at Bryant College, where he met the love of his life, Judith Slater. After serving in the United States Army, he settled in Seymour, Connecticut, and joined his parents in the family business, Seymour Oil Company. Through hard work, vision, and dedication, Bill went on to purchase the company and grow it into one of Naugatuck Valley’s largest heating oil and HVAC businesses.

A firm believer in education, Bill championed vocational training in the heating oil industry, helping grow its technical school into a thriving educational center. As president of the ICPA, he advocated for more than 450 heating oil dealers across Connecticut and remained active with the New England Fuel Institute. Through his leadership, Bill helped shape the future of his industry and support the next generation of professionals.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill’s greatest pride and joy was his family. Whether riding his snowmobile atop the mountains of Vermont, hunting in Nova Scotia, or gathering around the family dining room table, he cherished the moments spent with those he loved. Affectionately known as “Poppy,” Bill had a gift for conversation and a way of bringing people together, sharing stories, wisdom, and laughter. These are the moments and memories his family will treasure always.

Bill’s legacy of love lives on through his devoted wife, Judith Foster; his loving children, Michael, David, Lynn, and Kelly; his cherished grandchildren, Brooke, Mackinley, Samantha, William, and Meghan; and his beloved great-granddaughter, Millie Jude. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

A service celebrating Bill’s life will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to noon at St. Mark Roman Catholic Church, 222 McVeagh Road, Westbrook, CT 06498.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to ENTECH Advanced Energy Training’s Scholarship Fund in honor of Bill’s dedication to education in the HVAC trade. Entech Advanced Energy Training, 10 Alcap Ridge, Cromwell, CT 06416.

Online condolences and shared memories may be left for the family by visiting the Swan Funeral Home website via Dignity Memorial.