Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
William Gowdy Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Gowdy
Sponsored by Schisler Funeral Home - Northampton.
Jeff Frank
February 17, 2024
Hello,
Just doing an arbitrary search and seeing that Bill passed a few years after retirement.
To make a long story short- - Bill and I met at Kutztown as assigned roommates in the late Summer of 1973. I remember meeting Bill and his dad for orientation. We were room mates for the freshman year.
Great guy, great roommate and dinner companion.
We stayed in contact thru the 4-years at Kutztown University.
I knew all along Bill was a "special" person. Made to be a coach and educator.
May he be remembered with vigor as the true to life, quality, outstanding person he was.
May he RIP...
Jeff Frank
Lee H.
June 28, 2015
I will always have the fondest memories of Bill. So many of them still make me smile. My condolences to his family.
Nikki Murry
December 18, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Thank you for the love you gave in adopting Bosch and for passing that love onto the SNORT Rescue dogs in need. You're clearly a special angel.
Erik
December 8, 2014
I felt very fortunate to have met Bill this past year and was amazed at what a relaxed and friendly person he was. I know he will be truly missed by all those who have known him.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Kim and Ed Szerencsits
December 7, 2014
So hard to believe I'll never again hear his trademark greeting every time he came for haircuts of "How are YOU?" It always made me smile. Bill was one of those people who we always enjoyed talking to. He will be hugely missed and remembered forever.Hugs to all who loved him.
Great Allentown Fair
ALETA RUCCI
December 1, 2014
What a swell guy. You will be so missed. Wherever you were there were smiles. We all had so much fun together. You have left us too soon! My deepest condolences Sue -- you two were perfect together! xo
heather ames
November 30, 2014
Sorry for your loss, I was a student of his in the 90's. Always fair and quick to help a student. There are many lives he touched.
Curt Dimmick
November 30, 2014
Bill will be missed by so many. I am grateful to have been able to work with Bill for a few years at NAHS; he was such a gentle soul. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Tracie Yanders-Feddor
November 29, 2014
Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with you all during this time. May the many memories help comfort you. His smile, laughter, and neighborly wave will be missed.
November 29, 2014
Bill,
You will always be a great guy. Lauren's spoke perfectly of you and we are honored to have been a friend of yours. Sue, Lauren, Adrienne and Marsha, we are deeply sorry for your loss.
Keith and Lisa V.
Amy Dragan
November 29, 2014
You will be missed by many.
Amy Dragan
November 29, 2014
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Bill was a great man and we were so lucky to have met him.
Ashley Heffner
November 29, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was the type of person that could pull greatness out of people and make them laugh. I remember 9th grade year, you always pushed every student, so that they could exceed to their full potential, and of course, you would bring out the gowdy paddle, only to "scare" us, if we didn't. Your sense of humor and your smile from ear to ear when ever I said hello, will be how I will forever remember you. You were an excellent teacher, and loved by so many. Rip.
You'll be greatly missed.
Condolences to all his family, friends, and loved ones.
Ashley
November 28, 2014
Sue, so sorry for your loss. I wish there was something I could say or do that would help ease your sadness and pain. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Donna Cocco
Kathy Marakovits Nota, class of 1989
November 28, 2014
He was an excellent teacher and role model at NHS. Thinking and praying for his family during this very difficult time. RIP Mr. Gowdy. You will be greatly missed.
November 28, 2014
Bill was a teammate at Kutztown. He was not only a good football player but a very good man. My prayers go out to his family and I am very sorry for your loss. George Whary
Bob & Kathy Voshell
November 28, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Bills family. He was a great guy we are all going to miss him.
November 28, 2014
In remembrance of Mr. Gowdy.
November 26, 2014
It has been 30 plus years since he coached me on the Defensive line @ Northampton. I can still hear that distinct voice screaming at me on the practice field. We never liked when he was in charge of after practice conditioning. His "Hit its" or Grass Drills were relentless. Coach molded me for the next level of college football. Off the field, his HEART was as BIG as he was.
He touched and influenced many.
My Deepest Sympathy to the Gowdy family.
Rod Pursell Northampton Class of 1983.
Rich Kutzler
November 26, 2014
Bill was a good friend and teacher. He will be missed by all because everyone he met knew he was a special person. God bless to his family and Bill rest in peace
Ann Marie (Marx) Chiesa
November 26, 2014
Dear Gowdy Family ~
Sending heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Mr. Gowdy; he was so young and so full of life. May you find comfort to know how many lives he has truly touched. Remembering him teaching at NHS.
Cindy Puskas Ewaniuk
November 26, 2014
Sue,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband Bill. From all the condolences he sounds like great person and an excellent teacher. I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Hang on to the great memories of a wonderful man.
Bonnie Rumble
November 26, 2014
Our condolences to the entire Gowdy family. I had the privilege of having Mr. Gowdy as a teacher at Northampton and he was a not only a wonderful teacher but also just a great person who was so full of life and touched so many lives. Rest in peace Mr.Gowdy you will be well missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family at this difficult time!
November 26, 2014
to the Gowdy family;
what a shock what a wonderful person may he rest in peace.
may your family heal as time passes.
Jeff Smith
[your X mailman]
Pete Skolnik
November 26, 2014
Lauren,
I'm so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. He was such a great guy, and will be sadly missed by everyone who was touched by his life. I never had the privilege to have your Dad as a teacher, but I knew of him very well from his visits to Mario's back in the good old days. Hold the memories of him close to your heart, as he will always look down upon you through life. You're in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May he rest in peace forever.
kelly lehrman
November 25, 2014
God got and awsome angel .Mr Gowdy was probaly one of the best at Northampton.Always smiling .Rip Mr Gowdy
Ralph Alban
November 25, 2014
Sue and Family ,Very sorry for your loss . Rest In Peace Bill. Great Man !!!
Andrea Olsovsky
November 25, 2014
My condolences to the entire Gowdy family. Mr. Gowdy was always one of my favorite teachers at NHS. Hugs and kisses to Sue, Lauren, Amy and Jill, and to all his loving family and friends.
Alexis Anthony
November 25, 2014
Mr gowdy was a great teacher. He will b missed by me and I remember telling him " howdy mr gowdy to make him laugh"
November 25, 2014
Most fun loving, genuine person who was always there to help people with whatever they needed, may you rest in peace. You have touched the lives of so many. My condolences go out to your family during this challenging time. We will miss you Bill. Rest in Peace.
Ricky Sechler
November 25, 2014
Sue, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. The Sechler family.
Patty and Chris Jones
November 25, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. God gained quite a wonderful angel.
Lou & Cheryl Rabenold
November 25, 2014
To the nicest person to Bless our lives Rest in Peace Bill
Laura Lee
November 25, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was one of a kind and an all around amazing person. It's clear just by all of the comments alone what an impact he had on so many in a life that feels much too short. He was personally one of my favorite teachers and leaves an amazing legacy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many close friends.
Joni Remmel
November 25, 2014
Heartfelt condolences to the Gowdy family and his legion of friends and students. May the happy memories of him carry you through this sad time. Gone too soon - rest in peace Bill.
November 25, 2014
To the Gowdy family, I'm so sorry for your loss. It just doesn't seem possible. Bill was a talented, dedicated, and fun-loving individual. I worked with him for many years. First at the Northampton "Junior" High School, then the Senior High School. He has left his footprint in this life, and I'm sure he will in the next as well. God Bless!
Tanya Hock
November 25, 2014
Great guy! Will be missed! Thoughts, prayers, and my condolences go out to those in need especially the family. God bless, Tanya Hock
November 25, 2014
Bill put a smile on everyone's face that he touched. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathies.
Jim and Marta Schunk
November 25, 2014
William R. Gowdy Jr- one of the nicest men we have have ever met. Please accept our heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
Cathy and Kim Eberstein
Deutsch family
November 25, 2014
Prayers for Mrs. Gowdy and family. He was an aweome teacher at Northampton and touched many lives.
November 25, 2014
Sympathy to Bill's family for your huge loss. May your memories bring you some comfort.Thank you for being a true educator and a master of your craft.Bill will be watching over his family from above with love.God bless Bill and God bless his family.
Natalie (Kroope) Smith
November 25, 2014
It was a pleasure working with Bill at Northampton High School. I will fondly remember him, as he was a kind, warm, and humble man. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends who remember and miss him.
Thomas A. Ortwein
November 24, 2014
Sue, what a shock to receive word of Bill's passing. Bill was a well respected man. His friends came from all walks of life. I found him to be willing to go the "extra mile" for his students He made learning fun and his students wanted to please him because he made school fun for them. I was in Bill's classes frequently the ten years we were together not only as an observer but also as a substitute.Beyond the classroom Bill was always one to step up when help was needed within the building.
Proof of the type person Bill was can be found in the many condolences that has preceded this one. People who only knew Bill through his former students or via his furniture restoration took the time to share their feelings with Bill's family. Anyone who met Bill will miss him, may he RIP.
November 24, 2014
You will be missed. Sending our prayers to Sue. Happiest man ever
A
November 24, 2014
You always had a smile on your face and was always so happy. I am very sadden to hear the news of your passing. Your contagious laugh and personality will be missed by all. Sending our prayers to Sue. You will greatly be missed by the Northampton community.
Ralph Tarola
November 24, 2014
Our hearts go out to Bill's family. I worked with Bill for many years in the Northampton School District. He was truly one of the good guys, with a kind word for all. Rest in peace.
November 24, 2014
Always a kind man with a friendly smile. Thoughts and prayers with your family.
Gene and Ginny Stahler and family
Megzy
November 24, 2014
The memories made at the Gowdy residence will always be a part of me. You were always full of smiles and jokes and I'm so grateful you passed so much of what people loved about you down to Lauren. My heart is broken for the whole family. There ain't no party like a Gowdy party, and a little bit of all of us will never be whole again without you Mr. Gowdy.
Nora Borger
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy- you were a great teacher- this is sad to hear. My deepest sympathies to the Gowdy family and NHS.
November 24, 2014
Our hearts break for his family. Offering you our love, support, and deepest condolences. Praying for your strength. Love Tammie, Rich and Katie Partridge
John Tropeano
November 24, 2014
You were a great teacher and more importantly a great person. You will be missed.
November 24, 2014
My deepest sympathies to the family of such a great man. Mr. Gowdy was a great teacher and loved by not only myself but my children whom he taught as well. Heidi Keglovits Caldwell - NHS Class of 1988
jennifer vanderslice
November 24, 2014
Awesome teacher,rip
Wayne Oyer
November 24, 2014
Rest in peace Coach Gowdy.
Wayne O
November 24, 2014
Coach G was a great man and coach, everybody loved him, and his infectious smile. It was an honor to have known him and to have coached with him at NHS. Rest in peace Coach G!
Blessings to the Gowdy Family.
Bob Peloquin
November 24, 2014
Our Lord shall have a special place in heaven for you Mr. Gowdy. Rest In Peace.
Christine Hawk
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was an AWESOME teacher !! Everyone liked him a lot ! To his family so sorry for your loss.
Patti Emerson
November 24, 2014
My brother Rick played football with Bill for Kutztown when I was an Athletic Trainer on the sidelines. What a great guy - I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless.
Bill Focht
November 24, 2014
To: Sue and family, You all are in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn the loss of Bill. We never can truly understand the reason when a loved one is called home so early. Please find peace in knowing through strong faith, our loved ones are in a much better place and their absence from our lives is temporary...for one day we shall all meet again! May God bless you now and always!
Tabetha Gold(Druckenmiller) '96
November 24, 2014
Mrs Gowdy and family,
So sorry for your loss. Mr Gowdy was one of my favorite teachers. He was tough but fair and was always there to lend a hand to his students. May you find comfort in knowing he was a great man and was loved by many. God bless you in your time of sorrow
TRACY HUNSBERGER YOST
November 24, 2014
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY. SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS
TRACY HUNSBERGER YOST
November 24, 2014
YOU WERE MY 9TH GRADE TEACHER IN 1982. WHEN YOU FOUND OUT THAT I WAS QUITING SCHOOL YOU TRIED YOUR HARDEST TO CHANGE MY MIND AND I NEVER FORGOT THAT. I ALWAYS THOUGHT OF THAT AND WANTED TO WRITE YOU TO LET YOU KNOW HOW FAR I HAVE COME. I GOT THAT CHANCE IN THE SUMMER OF 2012 WHEN MY HUSBAND AND I WERE AT A YARD SALE AND I SEEN YOU AND I COULD NOT WALK AWAY WITHOUT TELLING YOU HOW MUCH I APPRECIATED YOU AND THAT I GOT MY GED AND WAS WORKING IN NURSING. YOU LET ME KNOW YOU WERE PROUD OF ME. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. YOU WILL BE IN MY HEART FOREVER.THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH A WONDERFUL AND CARING TEACHER. REST IN PEACE MR GOWDY
Louise Milkovitch
November 24, 2014
One of the greats from NHS, always had a smile on his face and if you were down he always turned your frown upside down. Mr.Gowdy you'll be missed by many :(
November 24, 2014
Deepest sympathies to family and loved ones of Mr. Gowdy. A loss that will be felt by all who were fortunate to have known him and remembered as a man that graced many lives. Always as a teacher with ability to leave an impact in students lives simply with a few words or the atmosphere created within the classroom by just his presence drawing minds into learning.
A. Billy and Family, Northampton Graduate '05
Andrew
November 24, 2014
One of the nicest and most genuine man I've ever met. The man always knew what to say to make any dark day a bright one, he never hesitated to tell you how he felt about you and that's something I'll never forget. I never had the privilege of having him as a teacher but whenever our paths did cross it's like time had stopped for that moment and all the jokes and laughter picked up where we left off, I remember leaving northampton in 2009 and him having such an impact on me as a person, and for that I can never thank him enough for that. And to the family my heart and condolences go out to you, his lovely wife Sue, and children, I hope you know how influential and special he was and the impact he's made on every student that has ever come in contact with him.
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was an amazing teacher and will be forever missed. RIP
Dan Kremus
November 24, 2014
NHS lost a great one. My prayers to the Gowdy family.
Dan Kremus '94
November 24, 2014
Our family's thoughts are with you all. I'm so sorry.
- Lori Stansberry (1996 Northampton grad)
Scott Miller
November 24, 2014
He was one of the best teachers at the High School. Always fun, I remember the bets he used to have with kids for donuts if a particular football team would win/lose. My condolences to his family.
Danielle Nischan
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was my favorite teacher in High school. My heart broke hearing of his passing. My love goes to his family and friends. RIP Mr. Gowdy...
November 24, 2014
Sue and Family
OUR thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.There are no words to be said at this time except be strong and let God heal your pain.
Love Pam and Carl Fehnel
t
November 24, 2014
Lauren, you are in our prayers this holiday season. Your father was a good man and will be missed. Love, Katie, James & Eden Zettlemoyer
November 24, 2014
With our deepest sympathy we send our prayers and love for you and your family. Bill was a great man he loved his family and was always there for his friends. I am proud to have had called him my friend. He will be missed by many Love Bob and Barbara Di Saverio
Allison
November 24, 2014
So sad to hear of Mr. Gowdy's passing. Although I didn't have the pleasure of having him as a teacher he was always smiling in the halls and I know anyone who had him loved him! My condolences to the Gowdy and Herschman families, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was one of the best and beloved teachers and coach of Northampton High School. He will always be remembered, not forgotten. Northampton class of 1988. Erika Madea Unger
Penny Hunsicker - Hawk
November 24, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Gowdy was an awesome teacher, in fact my favorite! I will always remember your ear wiggle! You will be missed!
Kate Galowitch
November 24, 2014
He was a very inspiring teacher. Sending prayers to him and his family.
November 24, 2014
Our heartfelt sympathy to the Gowdy family. Words are not adequate to express how much Bill will be missed. He was my husband's roommate at KU and we had such good times and fond memories of those days together. May you find peace in knowing others care and are lifting you in prayer at this difficult time.
God Bless,
Bill & Cindy Reppert
Heather Favinger Smith
November 24, 2014
my prayers go out to his family...he was absolutely one of my favorite teachers..he will be missed by many
November 24, 2014
Bill was God's gift to us. We will never understand why God needed him back. Rest in peace my dear friend until we meet again.
love
Dal
Susan Young
November 24, 2014
Lauren, I was so shocked and saddened when I heard the news about your dad. He was one of the most caring and sensitive men I have had the pleasure of knowing. I ran into him and Sue last month, and he caught me up to
date with you, your job etc...He is obviously very proud of you.
Bill-I will always hold close the memories of the trip we all took to Key West 7 years ago. We had fun. "Mr. William Go-D" report to the gate....we did get a laugh out of that one. Rest in peace.
November 24, 2014
I don't think a nicer guy walked the planet.
Jan Newhard-Faustner
November 24, 2014
To the Gowdy Family,
May you feel the love of the outpouring friends who share in the grief of a wonderful man all the way around. My sons were fortunate to have Bill as their teacher and they respected his values and looked up to him. May God wrap His loving arms around all of you, and may Bill's legacy and memories live forever in your hearts. With love and sympathy,
Christy Hartenstine - Montes
November 24, 2014
Mr. Gowdy was a great person and a great teacher. He knew my entire family and was always nice. He will be greatly missed!!!! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Donna Barto
November 24, 2014
Bill was a wonderful neighbor for over twenty years and was loved as a teacher by our three children. That old saying "the good die young" is certainly true in Bill's case. Our condolences to the entire family.
John and Donna Barto
Corey Perich
November 24, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Gowdy. He is already being missed by so many. I will never forget having to bring in donuts for our homeroom after he won a bet that the Eagles would beat the 49ers. It was always great to have him on the sideline at soccer games, and a pleasure to have him as a teacher. God Bless!!
Andrea Caliente-Haas
November 24, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Mr. Gowdy was one of my favorite teachers. Having him as a teacher made me want to learn. He will be missed. Forever in our hearts.
Tina Dormans
November 24, 2014
Sue and Jill, words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. He was a wonderful teacher. May your hearts be full of the wonderful times you had together.
November 24, 2014
I knew bill at the phoenix antique mkt in Allentown, back in the 90s,great guy, loved redoing antiques. he will be greatly missed. From al anderson, and the staff at leather corner post.
November 24, 2014
My heart is in pieces, Billy. I wish I could be silly with you just one more time. I wish we could have one more session of dumb talk. One more beef-stew dinner with thrice-bakes, ripping bread, and the butter buddy. One last soft-pants party. One more beer with one of the most awesome people I've ever been so fortunate to know. I wish I could see Milo's eyes light up when you walked through our door. I wish we could come up with just one more stupid invention. I wish Alex could have another day with his good friend Bill. I can still hear your laugh. I can still see your face. You are larger than life. I'll never forget you. Until we meet again on the other side, Billy Bob. Save a dance for me. ~Jen
Janet & Gary Young
November 24, 2014
Heavy hearts....so many fond memories of our friend Bill. Yes…"The Grand Master Trout!" He lived life & loved life with gratitude. Bill's smile will be with us always! God bless you Bill Gowdy...God bless your loving family…
Angela Perilla-Balut
November 24, 2014
I had the opportunity to meet Bill through the adoption of Bosch (now Buster I believe). My deepest condolences to his wonderful family. Sue you are in my thoughts.
Hans Nikischer
November 24, 2014
God Bless You My Friend Rest In Peace
November 24, 2014
Our world should be so fortunate to have more men like Bill. A man who touched so many lives and put a smile on so many faces. Known to a few as "The Grand Master Trout" and known to all as a "Grand" man. My heart bleeds for his family. He will be sorely missed.
Maureen B
November 24, 2014
This world needs more men like Bill who touched so many lives and put a smile on so many faces. Known to a few as the "Grand Master Trout". He was Grand! My heart bleeds for his family.
Tom Allen
November 24, 2014
Worked with Bill at the Allentown Fair. We always had fun when he was around. Thoughts and Prayers go out to his Family. You will be missed.
Dale and Dar
November 24, 2014
It's not an exaggeration to say 'everybody loved Bill Gowdy!' How could you not? Our hearts break for your family. Can't stop thinking about you all. We're praying hard for you! Love you all!
Robin O'Donnell
November 24, 2014
Sue, My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jen Boandl {seip}
November 24, 2014
Bill was a great teacher and great guy all around! so sorry for your loss, prayers and thoughts with your families.
Showing 1 - 100 of 111 results
Make a Donation
in William Gowdy's name
Memorial Events
for William Gowdy
Nov
29
Calling hours
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Schisler Funeral Home - Northampton2119 Washington Ave, Northampton, PA 18067
Nov
29
Memorial service
12:00 p.m.
Schisler Funeral Home - Northampton2119 Washington Ave, Northampton, PA 18067
Funeral services provided by:
Schisler Funeral Home - Northampton2119 Washington Ave, Northampton, PA 18067
People and places connected with William
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support William's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Gowdy's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
