William James Farquhar

William James Farquhar passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, at age 87. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he lived a life defined by love for family, hard work, and generosity.
Born in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, on November 23, 1937, Bill was the only child of Gladys (née Werder) and William E. Farquhar. He attended Lodi High School, where he played both basketball and baseball. After high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force as a radio operator aboard Fairchild C-119 "Boxcar" planes. His service took him to Paris and Germany in the late 1950s-a time he reflected on with gratitude, noting how fortunate he was to serve between the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Following his honorable discharge, Bill returned to northern New Jersey and met Rosalind Emma Rogmann in 1959 when he stopped to help after her car broke down. They married on April 30, 1960, and settled in Little Ferry, New Jersey-Rosalind's hometown. This past April, Bill and Rosalind celebrated 64 years of marriage, a bond he cherished deeply and proudly.
Bill spent most of his professional life in the trucking industry, steadily advancing through several managerial roles, including Vice President of Operations. For years, he commuted from New Jersey to the Bronx, always up before dawn to beat the city traffic.
Though dedicated to his work, Bill's true focus was always his family. He is survived by his loving wife Rosalind and their two sons: William B. Farquhar, married to Kelly, and their sons Joel and Justin; and Thomas J. Farquhar, married to Lori, and their children Andrew, Christian, and Willow. Nothing brought him more joy than being a grandfather. He was fully engaged in the lives of his five grandchildren and proudly attended their sporting events and milestones.
Bill volunteered as a Little League coach and umpire, always bringing enthusiasm and steady support for young players and their teams. He continued to umpire for several years after his sons had aged out of the league and also officiated games in Babe Ruth baseball leagues for teenagers. In recognition of his years of coaching and community involvement, he was honored with the Wall of Fame Coaching Award. And as a dad, he hardly ever missed a wrestling match, track meet, or cross-country race-faithfully showing up to cheer on his sons, Bill and Tom, throughout their high school sports seasons. He also enjoyed being an uncle to his nephew Steven Krauer and nieces Stephanie Den Boer (née Krauer) and Chrissi Brignola (née Krauer).
He prioritized annual vacations to bring the family together, beginning a cherished tradition in 1974 with summer trips to Sherman Lake in upstate New York, where the family spent many memorable weeks at Ridin-Hy Ranch. This tradition continues today and now includes his grandkids.
His love for sports continued into retirement-especially baseball, football, basketball, and college wrestling. He also enjoyed card games with friends in Springmill and quiet evenings watching movies with his wife. When facing life's challenges, Bill often reminded those around him to take things one day at a time, a simple motto that reflected his steady, grounded approach to life.
Late in life, he expressed deep appreciation for the medical care he received at the Wilmington VA Hospital, as well as the compassionate support provided by the team at Cadia Healthcare Broadmeadow in Middletown.
He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his kindness, and his caring presence. In short, he was a good man. May his memory be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A private burial is planned. Donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, visit woundedwarriorproject.org