William Harmuth

Obituary of William Harmuth
William "Will" Harmuth, 67, of Washington Township, NJ passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.
Will was born on September 19, 1957 in Orange, NJ to the late Frank and Doris "Frandsen" Harmuth. He graduated from Parsippany Hills High School class of 1974 and earned a degree from Newark School of Fine and Industrial Art (NSFIA), where he met his soulmate Lisa "Bonforte." They married in 1980. In addition to his loving wife of 45 years, He is survived by a daughter Nicole Curto and her husband Michael; his beloved dogs; his brothers and sisters; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Will knew at the age of 10 years old that he wanted to be an artist, and as a teenager he went on to win numerous scholastic awards. Early art school training from NSFIA and the Art Students League led to a career in Manhattan illustrating art works for Invisible Man, Call of the Wild, and Kafka for the Franklin Library. As a young professional, he won many Best in Show awards, was a member of the NJ Watercolor Society, and was accepted twice into the American Watercolor Society. Together with Lisa, they were commissioned to portray The Red Cross 9/11 comfort dog "Rusty," son of Lassie, for the 9/11 Museum in Manhattan.
Will established his career as a self-employed Graphic Designer and owned Williams & Philips Graphic Design with his business partner, Phil Palma. Together, they built their advertising agency with clients spanning from Manhattan to the Lehigh Valley. They worked with many local businesses and also on large campaigns for nationally recognized brands.
Will was very involved in the local Washington community. He created and designed the "Washington: Hometown Friendly" tagline and sign that flanks the entrances to the township, worked with the Business Improvement District, and served on the board of Common Sense for Animals.
Later in life, he focused on painting local scenery and imagery from his everyday life. He became a vivid part of the art community in Easton, PA where he was represented by Connexions Gallery. When he wasn't painting, he enjoyed antiquing, working with other unique art mediums, and tinkering with anything he could fix. More than anything, he cherished spending time with his family and friends.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Thursday May 15, 2025 from 4-8 PM at the Warren Hills Memorial Home. 234 W. Washington Ave. Washington, NJ 07882. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Warren Hills Memorial Home. To send an online condolence please visit www.warrenhillsmemorialhome.com
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Will's name to Common Sense for Animals PO Box 589 Broadway, NJ 08808