William Speckenbach

William "Bill" Speckenbach, 81, of New City, New York, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, with his loving wife Jeanne by his side.

Bill was born on October 1, 1944, in the Bronx, to William and Christine Speckenbach. The oldest of eight children, Bill never stopped being a protective big brother. He made sure his family always felt safe, supported, and cared for.

He attended St. Johns in the Bronx and graduated from Albertus Magnus High School. Bill began college and then was drafted into the Army where he served as a medic during the Vietnam War. He earned the Bronze Star for Valor for his heroism in the field and was proud to have served his country. Upon returning home, he completed his degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Bill enjoyed a career in the utilities industry with Orange and Rockland and Strategic Power Management.

Bill was incredibly smart and well read. He rarely missed a crossword puzzle, read the newspaper thoroughly, and always had a book nearby. Bill looked forward to his Sunday morning ritual; stopping at Rockland Bakery for fresh rolls, enjoying breakfast with his family, relaxing with a Bloody Mary and his favorite scratch-offs.

He was a sports fan and avid golfer. He enjoyed watching his favorite teams including The NY Mets, The Giants, and The Rangers but he was most passionate about golf, which he enjoyed playing with his family and friends. His love for sports trickled down to his children and grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than being in the stands for his grandchildren, cheering them on (sometimes louder than the Ref appreciated), and celebrating all of their accomplishments and milestones.

Affectionately known as Pop-Pop, his greatest pride was his family. With a quick and witty sense of humor, he loved sharing clever jokes and making people laugh. Whether on the golf course, around the dinner table, or watching a Hallmark movie, he brought warmth and lightness to those around him.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Jeanne; his son Christopher Speckenbach and his wife Juliette (Basso), and grandsons Nicholas and Patrick; his daughter Michelle Thompson and grandchildren Jake and Ava; and his son Anthony Battista. Bill also is survived by his loving siblings and their spouses: Richard & Elaine Speckenbach, Loretta and Jack Speckman, Noel Speckenbach (John), Christine and Paul Hofmann, James and Kate Speckenbach and Patricia and Tom Rooney, and many nieces/nephews and grand-nieces/nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents and brothers, Robert and John Speckenbach.

Bill's intelligence, humor, courage, and care shaped our family. We carry forward his legacy of strength, love, and laughter.

It was Bill's wish that we don't mourn him but celebrate him. The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life this spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory may be made to The Arbor Day Foundation or Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.