William O. Badger died peacefully at home in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina on September 1st, 2025 at the age of 83.
Known to all as an oenophile, Anglophile, and “opinionated gourmet”, he was best known as a man totally dedicated to his family and close friends.
Born and raised in Forest Hills, New York, he spent his summers on Shelter Island. He graduated from Kew Forest High School in 1960 and Bucknell University in 1964 with a degree in economics. It was there that he met his future wife, Mary Ellen Graetz. On their very first date, they made angels in the snow and went sledding on the trays from the dining hall, where they both worked. That happy time led to marriage in 1965.
Following a 2-year stint in the army, Bill began working in his chosen field of finance. While work kept him busy, he always found time to start a wine-tasting group wherever he lived.
After the birth of his first daughter, he went back to college to get an MBA in finance and continued his long career in the field.
Extensive business travel earned him million-mile status, which enabled him to treat his family to adventures and world travel.
Later in life, after the birth of his first grandchild, he and his wife moved to the Charleston, South Carolina area in Mount Pleasant to be near both of their daughters and their families. He enjoyed swimming in the pool, grilling on the deck and spending time with his loved ones including his two grand dogs.
Bill is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ellen, as well as his brother Randall, daughters Kristin Walker (Randy) and Susan St. Hilaire (Michael) and two wonderful grandchildren-Sophia and Holden St. Hilaire.
He is interred in Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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