William Francis Amundsen Jr.

William Amundsen, Jr.
William Francis Amundsen, Jr., 82, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, March 15, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Shirley (Caron) Amundsen.
Mr. Amundsen was born in Norwalk on February 4, 1944, the son of the late William F. Amundsen, Sr. and Vivian (Moffett) Amundsen. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam Era and later retired as a Fleet Administrator with Perkin Elmer after 32 years of service.
Bill was a member of the American Legion and an avid golfer who cherished the many trips he took to Myrtle Beach with "the golf guys." In his younger years, he was a versatile athlete who enjoyed playing many different sports. He will be remembered for his loving, kind, and comedic personality that naturally drew people to him. Often described as the life of the party, Bill had a remarkable ability to bring laughter and warmth to every gathering.
In 1972, Bill and Shirley moved to Ridgefield, CT, later relocating to Southbury in 2004. They eventually settled in Harwinton, where they built a close circle of treasured friends and a community they deeply valued. Bill will be fondly remembered for his quick wit, his fierce devotion to his family, and his selfless, generous spirit.
In addition to Shirley, his devoted wife and "rock," he is survived by two daughters: Keri Shugrue and her husband Michael of Sterling, MA, and Dana Amundsen and her longtime partner Scott Garrett of Harwinton. He also leaves two grandchildren, Shea Mulhare of Bristol and Dakota Shugrue of Sutton, MA; his cousin Bill Hotchkiss of Fort Myers, FL; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his sister, June Schnepp.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3:00 p.m. at Gleeson-Ryan Funeral Home, 258 Prospect Street, Torrington, CT. All are welcome to attend a reception immediately following the memorial service.
Bill often said that he didn't want sadness after he was gone - he wanted a party. His family hopes those who knew and loved him will gather to celebrate his life in that spirit.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fisher House Foundation (fisherhouse.org/donate), which provides comfortable, cost-free lodging so that family members of veterans can be close to their loved ones during hospitalization.
To offer an online condolence, please visit gleesonryanfh.com