William Eidel

Born on March 6, 1949, in Newark, Bill was the son of William J. Eidel and Ruth (Wean) Eidel. He grew up in Newark and Irvington, and later lived for many years in Union before making Toms River his home in 2006. He graduated from St. James High School in Newark as a member of the Class of 1967, where he served as president of his senior class and was voted best dancer and most popular.

Bill served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He served overseas from November 1968 to November 1969 with the 101st Airborne Division, and then as an automatic rifleman with Company C, 2nd Battalion (Mechanized), 8th Infantry, 4th Army. He attained the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in June 1970. Proud of his country, Bill served with dignity and honor, yet remained humble and private about his time in Vietnam.

During his military service, Bill was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for meritorious service, the Purple Heart for wounds received on July 22, 1969, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Air Medal Citation for meritorious service on April 26, 1969.

Following his military service, he built a dedicated career with the Social Security Administration, where he worked for 32 years as a Claims Representative. After hours, Bill also worked for 18 years at Coleman's Tuxedos in Irvington and Short Hills, New Jersey. After leaving the Social Security Administration, Bill worked at the Holiday Care Center as an Activities Assistant, where he cared for residents with compassion and kindness. He especially enjoyed activities with the residents and impressed his grandchildren with his expertise at Wii bowling.

Above all else, Bill was devoted to his family. He married the love of his life, Linda, on October 27, 1972, and together they built a life centered on love, family, and friendship. He was a loving father to David (Michelle) Eidel and Nancy (Keith) Myer. He cherished his six grandchildren, Sam, Jack, Max, Maggie, Hank, and Charlie, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Bill was predeceased by his sister, Mary R., and his brothers, John and Michael. He is survived by his sisters, Diane Cardinale and Dorothyanne Condoleon, as well as his brother-by-another-mother, Frank Santoro, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Bill was known for his warmth, generosity, and his acerbic wit. He was unapologetic about stating his opinions (of which he had many), resulting in a collection of memorable “Billisms” that his family will treasure and repeat for years to come. He especially enjoyed cooking and took great joy in making sure everyone around him was well fed. His greatest happiness came from caring for his family and friends.

He was an active member of American Legion Post 35 in Union NJ, American Legion Post 129 in Toms River NJ, and the Bar Twenty, where he formed lifelong friendships and remained connected to fellow veterans and neighbors. In addition to travel in Europe, Bill and Linda attended ‘camp’ (vacation) annually in Fort Myers, Florida for over 20 years with their dearest friends.

Bill’s life was marked by loyalty, kindness, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the memories he created and the care he gave so freely will remain with his family forever.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Horizon Funeral & Cremation Services, 1329 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ. A private interment at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

May his memory bring comfort and peace to all who loved him.