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William Gaffney Obituary
Rush, NY - January 16, 2019 at age 95. Bill was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Bette McCabe Gaffney. He is survived by his 3 children, Daniel (Roberta) of Palm Desert, California, Thomas (Pam) of Ulster Park, NY, and Colleen (Bruce) Green of Rush; 6 grandchildren, Maureen Gessel, Meaghan Howe, Michael Gaffney, Stephen Gaffney, Melissa and Dallas Green; 3 great grandchildren, Brady and Logan Gessel and Betsy Gaffney-Howe; 3 siblings, James (Gloria), John (Carolyn) and Monica Carey; several nieces and nephews.
Bill was born on August 19, 1923 in Rush, NY to Bart and Mary Gaffney. He graduated from Rush High School and attended Cornell University until drafted into the US Army in WW II where he attained the rank of Captain. While serving in the 12th Armored Division in Europe, he received several combat awards, including the Silver Star for "Gallantry in Action." Bill was a Kodak retiree of 46 years, 25 of those year were spent as a financial manager of a highly classified photography satellite program which has only recently been declassified. He also served as the President of the 2400 member Kodak Management Club. He was a lifelong resident of Rush and as a life member of the Stevens Connor American Legion Post #1330 where he served as past Commander for 5 terms and was named the Monroe County Legionnaire of the Year in 2001-2002. He received the National Commander Membership Award and the Monroe County Distinguished Service Award. Bill was also a member of the Rice-Hallick VFW Post #5465.
Bill was an avid golfer who thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie's of the members at Thunder Ridge CC and Locust Hill CC. He was an effective advocate relating to several projects such as: against the Iraq War; unequal town property taxes; ill-advised building projects; ill-advised move of town center as well as getting admission of the United States Flag in the obituaries for free with the Democrat and Chronicle.
Friends may call Thursday, January 24, 2019 from 4-7 pm at the Merton H. Kays Funeral Home, Inc. 59 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Marianne Cope Parish in St. Joseph's Church, Rush, NY on Friday at 10:30 am. Burial with Military Honors at Pine Hill Cemetery. Those wishing in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the McQuaid Jesuits. To light a candle in remembrance of Bill, please visit www.mertonkaysfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Gaffney
Sponsored by Merton H Kays Funeral Home, Inc..
JACKIE ROSE
January 25, 2019
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I have know bill for quite sometime (godfather). My father was also a member of the American legion and a past commander. I have many memories of all the picnics, turkey raffles, parades etc. RIP Bill you will be missed.
Tom Diosy
January 22, 2019
I worked with Bill at Kodak for several years on the funding of business and research projects undertaken by "Bridgehead," the then classified moniker for the program he worked within. I gained a great deal of respect for the man and his business acumen. Later in my life he took me under his wing as a fellow resident of Rush, and introduced me to town politics which for Bill, was one of many missions. Always the activist, always looking to do the right thing, he was a class act. I know that even his political adversaries would have to agree with that. I'm honored to have known the man.
Darryl Mandy Thompson
January 21, 2019
Dan, Bobbi
Sorry for your loss. Know we lost touch years ago. Sending prayers your way.
Darryl and Mandy Thompson
Chuck and Jane Talley
January 21, 2019
Jack and Carolyn, our sympathies and prayers are with you and family.
Doug and Rhonda Roesch
January 21, 2019
Bill was a great man and I am honored to be related to him. He will be missed by all who knew him. My family sends our condolences.
Donna Dixon
January 20, 2019
Colleen & Bruce enjoyed meeting your dad at family gatherings always lots of fun. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love you, cousin Donna
Ron & Mary Alt
January 20, 2019
Jack & Carolyn,
Our condolences to you and your family.
You're in our prayers.
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Merton H Kays Funeral Home, Inc.59 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
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Merton H Kays Funeral Home, Inc.59 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
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