William "Bill" Gorman

1938 - 2025

Who spent 87 years perfecting the art of being simultaneously South Buffalo tough and California mellow, departed this life peacefully. From his cherished South Buffalo roots to his California crew, Bill embodied the spirit of service that would define his wonderful life. Bill was born during the final gasps of the Great Depression to John and Eleanor Gorman. After graduating from Bishop Timon High School, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army at just 17, beginning a lifetime commitment to service. Following an adventurous European deployment, Billy returned home and joined the Buffalo Fire Department. It was at Engine 32, Ladder 5 at Seneca & Swan where he discovered that running into burning buildings was an excellent way to forge treasured lifelong friendships. In 1963, Bill married Joanne Hooley, and they enjoyed raising their four children in a very lively South Buffalo home. After Joanne's untimely passing at just 33, Bill proved that his heart's capacity for love is not subject to Buffalo's harsh winters, and he found happiness again when he married Sue Jenkins, his wife of over 50 years. Sue and Bill later departed for Southern California, where they spent the last several decades exploring, travelling, and enjoying their many lovely friends and neighbors. Bill will always be remembered for his excellent 'Sinatra-like' singing voice and love of dance. His irrepressible wit and talent for political commentary could turn any dinner party into either a spirited debate or a minor diplomatic incident. A true history buff with a curious mind, Bill never stopped learning. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sue; his children Kate, Tim, and Terry (James Brown); his cherished grandchildren Cat, Tess, Milo, Bill, Natalie, and Finn; his sisters Maureen Gleason and Micky Wilson; and plenty of wonderful nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his son Billy, his brother Jack Gorman, and his sister Dorothy O'Hara, who are no doubt organizing the celestial equivalent of a South Buffalo house party. While we mourn Bill's passing, we celebrate a beautiful life and a generous heart that always showed up with humor intact and ready to sing. He'll always be remembered with great love, respect, and admiration.