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William Behrends Obituary
Mahopac
92, 09-Jan, Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home.
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Memories and Condolences
for William Behrends
Sponsored by Joseph J Smith Funeral Home Inc.
Kerry Guiney
February 6, 2019
Dear Joan and Family,
My heart is broken learning of your beloved fathers passing. I will always remember your Dad's presence at St. John's when we were students there. He always was quick with a friendly smile. Then later at MHS your father was my Buisness Math teacher. His classroom overlooked the smoking area and he would shout out the window at me to get to class on time. Later in life it was a pleasure running into him at Mass. I'm thinking of you all and I am certain you will find great comfort in all your wonderful memories.
Kerry Guiney
Jeffrey Kellogg
January 17, 2019
I was so sorry to learn of Mr. B's passing. What a great man. I will never forget him! Jeff K.
Robert and Marsha Nussbaum
January 15, 2019
We were truly saddened to learn of Bill's untimely passing. We were unaware of Bill's illness and to read his obituary was unexpected. Bill was not only a fine gentleman but was an outstanding teacher/coach/ athletic director for many years at MHS and leaves an enviable record. Our friendship goes back many years and was one to be treasured. May We extend our prayers and condolencef to Bill's family.
Leslie Seymour
January 15, 2019
My deepest condolences to the Behrends family. Mr. Behrends was a wonderful teacher, coach and mentor. He really cared about his students. He helped me succeed in athlectics at Mahopac High School. I will always remember his smiling face!
Howard Meyer
January 15, 2019
Bill Behrends was a truly exceptional person. One on person is missing, the whole world seems desolate. When I became an Athletic Director at Gorton High School in Yonkers, Bill always saved time at the end of Section One meetings to answer any of my questions and served as a personal mentor. He was a delight to be around both professionally and personally. My sincere condolences to the Behrend's family, he will be long be remembered.
Yvonne McDonnell
January 14, 2019
I was a student at mahopac and remember him fondly. So sorry for your loss
Kevin Bergin
January 14, 2019
When I was a young boy, Mr. Behrends called me "Mike." It was explained to me, by my father Michael Bergin, that the two of them were in the Marine Corp together for basic training during WWII; So these two guys, who grew up in the Bronx, serviced in The Corp and both settled down in Mahopac to raise their families.
It was through this connection that Athletic Director (AD) Bill allowed me to be the PA announcer at varsity football and basketball games. I will always appreciate that.
He was known as a long standing AD for the successful sports programs at Mahopac High, but I also remember him as my track & field coach.
Although he area of expertise was never the discuss throw, he would still come up to our practice area and make suggestions and encouraged us discus and shot putters.
This one is for those who was on the track team during Bill's tutelage, see if you remember the first day on training: C H A M P.)
He will be missed.
Kevin Bergin
MHS
Class of '76
Ramona Bastome Winter
January 14, 2019
Mr. B was loved and admired by his family and everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. While I have many memories all which will be treasured forever. What I remember most is the way his family and friends adored him. Yes, he was, and always will be the "Man" people didn't just know, they wanted to be!
He will be missed and yet his legacy will continue to inspire, if we follow his example by simply making everyone around you feel special". As for me, every time I hear the song Coach by Kenny Chesney I will think of the special man known as Mr. B.
Joseph Piqueras
January 14, 2019
Joe Pic here from almost 50 years ago. Thanks for all you done for myself
and countless others over the years. Great people come in few.God bless
Gina McGovern
January 14, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Behrend's family at this difficult time. May the memories and love you share bring you peace. Rest in Peace Mr. B.
Todd Zuzulo
January 14, 2019
i looked forward to his yearly phone call to order the trophies for the section one basketball tournament at county center. it was more of a friendly ritual than a business arrangement will never forget those friendly phone conversations truely a highlight in my business career RIP Todd A. Zuzulo, T&L Trophies, Pelham NYs
Sean Payne
January 14, 2019
I was a graduate of MHS in 1994 and remember how kind and friendly Mr. Behrends always was to me. he always went out of his way to help me. R.I.P Mr. B we will miss you
Mary McNamara Waldron
January 13, 2019
To all the Behrends,
I remember playing with your dad while raking leaves with my grandfather. He was always so kind to us and to my grandparents.(they lived across the street- Hetzer's) I remember both your mom and dad. But I remember bringing my young children over to visit your dad when I was in town, I thought very highly of him and I've thought of him over the years and whenever I saw him out, I would go over and talk to him. He will be missed by all the McNamara's . God Bless and know that your dad has joined God and is at peace. Love to all, Mary McNamara Waldron.
Marcella Cahill
January 13, 2019
Dear uncle Bill your at peace now you were the best husband,father uncle and God father you will be missed you will always be in my heartsv
Janet McGrane - Stangl
January 13, 2019
So sorry to hear, Prayer to the Family.
Kerri Calabrese
January 13, 2019
I graduated from MHS in 1993 and Mr. Behrends was the best. We got along great and he helped me with some personal issues that I had to deal with. He was the kindest and sweetest man.
Kevin Provost
January 12, 2019
I have had the great pleasure of working as Bill's caregiver for the last few years.It has been a blessing and a treasure to know a man of Bill's distinction.As I read the memories and wishes that people have left for the family I am once again fighting the urge to cry because as the last several weeks have been trying for all of those close to him as he gallantly battled the insidious Parkinson's Disease, Wednesday night he finally said his goodbyes to his daughters and passed to his next destination of heaven, and free from physical handicaps and struggles.I don't believe in coincidences and I don't believe it was an accident that I had a chance, at this late stage in my life to work and yes, become friends with Bill Behrends. I am deeply grateful that I was chosen to care for Bill and I will take many happy and some hilarious memories to wherever I go next. To all of Bill's children and his brother Freddy Behrends, thank you for all you have done to make my job easier by covering for appointments or filling in when I needed to be off unexpectedly. You all are just like your dad, a class act.
Regina (Carnazza) Fody
January 12, 2019
To the Behrends Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I loved your Dad as an administrator and as a coworker. He was such a sweet and honest man with a kind heart. This world lost one very special man.
January 12, 2019
I'm so very sorry for your loss and the pain you continue to feel through the years. Please draw solace and hope from God's promise at John 11:35,40-44
January 12, 2019
May God comfort and strengthen your family during this time of deep sorrow. God will remember those who pass on in death because they are precious in his eyes. John 6:40.
January 12, 2019
May Gods loving kindness comfort you and help you through this very difficult time. Psalms 29:11.
MP
January 12, 2019
I am sorry for your loss. May you receive the comfort you need during this difficult time. Matthew 5:4
Robb Delaney
January 12, 2019
My condolences to the family. What a great man with such patience he had with his students. I remember many times having to "sit" in the office and that man always had a smile on his face, kind words of wisdom for why you were there and was surrounded by some Irish humor from the coffee mug on his desk, or the "No Irish Need Apply" sign that hung on his wall behind his seat.
I wish i was able to see him the few times I have been back to Mahopac, but sadly I didn't know he was still in Mahopac. I will forever remember the lessons he taught us.
Robert Bayer
January 12, 2019
I wish to offer my condolences to the family of Bill you should draw comfort to the fact that he lived a long life and touched so many people in such a positive way. As a fellow Athletic Director I had many opportunities to see him at his best. He was a wonderful representative of the Mahopac School System. Always insightful and fair minded. A true friend. Bob Bayer , Athleic Director , Lakeland SchoolsGyseR
S H
January 12, 2019
Please accept my heart felt sympathy for the loss of your love one. May the God of all comfort Strengthen you at this time of sadness. May God promise tPleasehe future bring you peace. Hosea 13:14
Lilie Torres
January 12, 2019
Sorry for your lost in the family hecho 24 15
January 12, 2019
May Gods loving kindness comfort you and help you through this very difficult time. Psalms 29:11.
January 12, 2019
I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you continue to feel comforted by the loving support of family and friends and also from God Almighty who will give you the strength to get through these difficult times. Isaiah 57:15
L B
January 12, 2019
Offering sincere condolences to the Behrends family and friends.May God comfort your hearts and make you firm. 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17
January 12, 2019
My Sincerest condolences for your loss. May precious memories of your dear loved one, along with encouraging words such as those found at John 11: 25 & 26 be of comfort to your family as it has me.
SAS
January 12, 2019
Sincere condolences to the family of William, May Gods loving kindness comfort the family and give them peace.(1Cor.1:3)
January 12, 2019
My sincere condolences to the Family for the loss of your loved one. Find strength in prayer, joy in your fond memories and comfort in God. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)
January 12, 2019
I so sorry for your loss. May the God who "binds up the
brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn," strengthen you during this difficult time.
Isaiah 61:1, 2.
M C
January 12, 2019
Please accept my sincere condolences.You are not alone during this time of sorrow and pain. May God give your family strength and comfort to help you endure this loss. As you remember your beloved one, the God of peace give you comfort and peace in every way. May you find Strength from the love and care that surrounds you and comfort in the memories that you share. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 .
January 12, 2019
My deepest condolences are with the family and friends during this difficult time. May the comfort from our loving God bring peace and warmth. Continue to cherish the wonderful memories. (Jeremiah 29:11 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17.)
January 12, 2019
May God sustain you and your family in this time of mourning.
January 12, 2019
May you all have the strength you need at this time of sorrow, Phillipians 4:13.- Philadelphia.
Joan Cassetta Shields
January 12, 2019
Sending my condolences to the family of a magnificent man. Mr Behrends managed to stretch us to excellence with his wit, sense of purpose and the twinkle of his eye. He shaped us well and the gifts he gave us of believing in ourselves was not wasted.
PATRICIA DELANEY
January 11, 2019
Prayers for the family and friend's of Mr.Behrends. I remember him well when I was in Mahopac High School. He was a great teacher and really loved and cared about his students. God Bless.
Susan Sterling van Vugt
January 11, 2019
My sincerest condolences to the entire Behrends Family. He was such a sweet Man who put his Family first. I have wonderful memories of him and my Dad, Robert Sterling. May he Rest In Peace ❤
David Hufnagel
January 11, 2019
So sorry to hear this. Mr behrends always brought a smile to everyone's face. I (maybe not a good thing) was in his office a lot, but he always knew how to make a situation better. I feel he made me a better person, and when I think back in my time at Mahopac high, he always comes up in the stories that are told. Rest In Peace
Missy FOSCOLOSS
January 11, 2019
My prayers are with the Behrens family. He was a wonderful man
Meg & George Wright
January 11, 2019
We are so very sorry to hear of Mr. Behrends passing. He was such a wonderful man and always greeted us with a big smile. Boy did he save me from being killed by my parents back in high school. A genuine great man. You are all in our thoughts and prayers .
Julie Tracy
January 11, 2019
My fondest memories are from New Years Day and your dad dropping in for a scotch and a visit with my dad. Sending prayers and hugs and kisses. If I was in NY I would be there. Love Julie Tracy
Erich Komdat
January 11, 2019
So sad to hear of Mr. Behrends passing.I have many fond memories of him as my coach and mentor during my years at Mahopac high school. My condolences to his family and friends.
Jacqueline Behrends
January 11, 2019
MR. William,
We will always LOVE you. Hasta la vista Mr. William.
Your son: John and sister and daughter in law Jacqueline Behrends
M G
January 11, 2019
Please accept my condolences for your families loss. May God give to your family the comfort and strength you need to cope with your loss. Please know that he is there listen to all your heartfelt prayers for help. Jeremiah 29:11,12
January 11, 2019
To the family our deepest condolences may you have comfort in knowing how almighty God feels for your love one Psalms 116:15
Chris Mcgary
January 11, 2019
Mr. Behrends taught me a lot as my advisor/principal from 89-92. Whenever I was in trouble, he showed me a different perspective and how to manage the chaos of School. Always took the time to really know everyone. What a great man and a great life. He will be missed, but not forgotten as all you have to do is talk someone who knew him, and you will see him in them.
M B
January 11, 2019
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
January 11, 2019
Those who pass on God Keeps in his memory because he cares for them. Sorry for your loss.
Linda Guadagnoli
January 11, 2019
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I worked with him at Mahopac High School and remember his smile. He was truly a gentleman, full of energy and always fair minded with the students. May he rest in peace and may he be remembered for all the good things he imparted to so many people.
michael annunziata
January 11, 2019
What a great guy, We were so lucky to have him at Mahopac. He was very caring and always treated us with respect. He personally bonded with and brought out the best in students, especially the troublemakers. We couldn't have asked for a better principal and role model. RIP
Jay Emma
January 11, 2019
I loved Mr. Behrends and he was such a ray of sunshine. Every time I saw him, he paid attention to me and encouraged me and always had something positive to say. He was full of love and wasn't afraid to give his opinion. He was a man's man, what an incredible Legacy he has left behind in his family and in all of the Mahopac students who have their own families now. My deepest and most sincere condolences to the family.
Don and Eileen Smith
January 11, 2019
Behrends Family....our sympathy, thoughts, prayers and most importantly our gratitude for sharing your Dad's life with us....we are all better human beings thanks to Coach B.... Coach Behrends, US Marine, lived his life of service and dedication being the best he could be...yes he abided by Semper Fidelis...Always Faithful....may Coach R.I.P. with his beloved wife and mother of his children Josephine.... God's Spirit To All..
Don and Eileen Smith
Palm Beach Gardens , FL
Maureen Skelly Anderson
January 11, 2019
I have such wonderful memories of Mr. B at the high school. His smile always lit up the whole cafeteria! He was always so warm with all of his students. May the Lord wrap his loving arms around your family and friends, Mr. B, and comfort them. Fly high with the angels, and continue to watch over our beautiful little town of Mahopac, that you always loved so much ❤
January 11, 2019
I sympathize with you for the loss. When a loved one dies their memories becomes a treasure, may those cherished memories of a life well lived of Mr Behrends and God Promised at John 6:40 comfort the entire family's
January 11, 2019
Its never easy to lose a loved one. I pray you find comfort from in Gods promise found at (John 6:40) which says that soon we will all see our love ones again. My deepest condolences to the family.
Mary (Perry) Robbins
January 11, 2019
So many fond memories. Spending time at the Behrends home watching football and having dinners. What a wonderful man. All my live to the whole family. I will keep you in my prayers.
William Chiacchia
January 11, 2019
R.I.P Coach Behrends
January 11, 2019
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
January 11, 2019
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
January 11, 2019
Very sorry for the lost of your loved one May God the hearer of prayers comfort you during this difficult time and give you strength. 2 cor. 1:4
Lisa Daros-Gutshall
January 11, 2019
Mr. Behrends was one of my favorite teachers at Mahopac High School in the early 80's. I had him for business math and I still use some of the skills he taught me. His amazing smile comes to my memory when I apply them. May you rest in peace Mr. B. You made a positive impact on my life.
Judy Brady Witherspoon
January 11, 2019
Our love and condolences to family and friends of Bill.
David Gliewe
January 11, 2019
Rest easy, Coach. You did your duty. You had a great run. I am richer knowing you in school. You will be missed.
Kevin Griffith
January 11, 2019
Mr Behrends was a classy guy in the vein of Jim Rollier;Joe Bellucci;and Bill Stanley...all Ww2 vets and all admired by everyine who went to Mahopac schools.He always told the Cross Country team to "bring home the bacon!"so we brought a poubd of bacon and gave it to himRest in peace you lived a good life
January 11, 2019
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.johnn 5:28,29
F&D
January 11, 2019
Our sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort in knowing that God collects our tears and is close to the brokenhearted ready to comfort us in our moment of need. - Psalm 56:8
N M
January 11, 2019
I'm so sorry for your loss. May God's word comfort you. The scripture at John 6:40 gives us hope to see our loved ones again in the future. Hold on to the hope of seeing Bill again.
Laura Martorana Miller
January 11, 2019
Rest in Peace Mr. B you were loved by all.
Mary and Family my condolences, My prayers to all of you
Love Laura
January 11, 2019
I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."
Cathie Bazner
January 11, 2019
I have fond memories of Mr Behrends. His love of football and stories about famous coaches I still remember. He was very kind and dedicated, and one of my favorite teachers. Sincere condolences to the family.
A Caring Neighbor
January 11, 2019
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Please except my deepest sympathy. Romans 12:12
Paula Kolp (Cannizzaro)
January 11, 2019
My condolences to Mr.B's family, he was truly one of the good guys. He was more than a teacher to a lot of us he was a friend, a great listener and a fair man who truly enjoyed what he did. You will be missed.
D S
January 11, 2019
During this time of grief and sorrow, know that you are not alone. May God give your family and friends strength and comfort to help you endure this great loss. As you remember your beloved William, may our Heavenly Father, the God of peace give you peace in every way today, tomorrow and always.-2nd Thessalonians 3:16
January 11, 2019
Sending you my condolences in the time of your loss.
B P
January 11, 2019
I would like to offer my condolences to the family. I am very sorry for your loss. May you receive comfort and peace from God. Romans 15:3
January 11, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss. God cares for you and he will comfort you at this time. (1 Pet. 5:6 & 7)
January 11, 2019
May the God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn," strengthen you during this difficult time. Isaiah 61:1, 2.
A.B
January 11, 2019
My heartfelt condolences to the family. May you find comfrort from Gods words and promises for the future for our loved ones who have passed. Have peace and happiness in the memories you shared. (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)
Kathleen McNamara-Scofield
January 11, 2019
Words can not express how sorry I am for the loss of your father. Our families have shared many memories with each other having had my grandmother and Aunt across the street. Then for me to be blessed and able to call him my neighbor for 16 years. Your father was an amazing man always happy to see me and was always willing to stop and chat with my son and see how things where going even when it was hard for him. That is who he was always willing to reach out. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Maria A
January 11, 2019
What a wonderful long life your loved one had, Psalm 90:10 says that the days of our years are 70 years, And if because of special mightiness they are 80 years. Special mightiness indeed. May the memories of the wonderful times you shared together bring a smile and joy in your heart.
January 10, 2019
May the peace of God be with you.
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