William Kenneth Principe

William "Willie" Principe, age 92, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, surrounded by loving family. Born on July 24, 1932, in New York City to Gonzalo and Providencia Principe, Willie lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he served during the Korean War and later dedicated over two decades as a bus driver for the New York City Transit System. A devoted Catholic, Willie was a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, and his faith and love for his wife and family were guiding lights throughout his life. He was a lifelong baseball fan who loved to watch games. He was an avid collector of things he found special and enjoyed vacations with his family. After moving to Arizona, he embraced his inner cowboy by adapting quickly to the life of western boots, bolo ties, turquoise jewelry, cowboy hats, and his beloved saddle. His warmth, sense of humor, and deep love for his family were known by all who met him. To have known Willie was to love him. Willie is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Elaine (née Kolle); his children, Christine Glennon (Dave) and Paul Principe (Jessica); and his cherished grandchildren: Justine Vasquez (Jose), Jennifer Balestrieri (Frank), Melissa Rizzo (Joseph), Sean Glennon (Kaci), Candice Wright (Travis), and Kyle Principe. He was also blessed with fifteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his dear sister, Jennifer Bias (William). He was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen Johnson and son-in-law, Craig Johnson. A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, from 1:00 to 3:30 PM at Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary in Scottsdale, Arizona. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 14, at 10:00 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Cremation will follow. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Valley for their care during his final days. Live Stream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/5249700 Recorded Video Link: https://vimeo.com/1100473901