William H. Hollenbeck

William "Bill" H. Hollenbeck
Bill Hollenbeck, 85, of Elmira, NY, peacefully departed this life on December 23, 2024, with his cherished wife by his side after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease. Born on January 8, 1939, in Elmira, NY, he was a proud graduate of Elmira Southside High School, Class of 1957. A dedicated Navy veteran, Bill served his country with honor and pride.
As a loving family man, Bill treasured the moments spent with his wife of 67 years, Mary "Punky" (St. Louis), and their children: Michael (Cheryl) Hollenbeck, Arthur Hollenbeck, Kelli (Daniel) Morsch, and Kenneth (Nikki) Hollenbeck. He is also survived by his sister, Lauretta Hollenbeck (Cieri), eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, a large extended family, and many dear friends.
Bill found great joy living on Seneca Lake, where he constructed his beloved cabin on Starkey Pointe. This cabin became a treasured gathering spot for family and friends, fostering memories that would last a lifetime. Whether sharing stories by the fireside or enjoying tranquil mornings on the porch, every moment spent there was significant. His family fondly recalls him cruising around the lake in his soft-top "gator" Jeep and taking delight in his shiny El Camino, a testament to his love for cars, which even led him to win a street race during his youth.
He enjoyed sipping sarsaparillas with his close friend, Marc Munley, and frequently spent his evenings at Manzari's in Elmira, NY, throughout the years. Bill was also passionate about golfing with family and friends, achieving an impressive "hole in one" at the age of 83 in Englewood, FL. A devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Baltimore Orioles, where he would attend many games at Memorial Stadium, Camden Yards, or listening on the radio each game he could. Bill loved to take his fishing boat out for a morning catch and had too many fish stories to tell. He loved taking the family and friends out on rides to enjoy all that Seneca Lake had to offer.
Bill was well-known for his delightful sense of humor, often sharing funny anecdotes from his Navy days and family adventures, bringing joy and laughter to those around him. His quick wit and sharp humor will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bill was preceded in death by his brother James (Jim) Hollenbeck, brother-in-law Thomas Cieri, and his son Michael Hollenbeck. Calling hours will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm at Sullivan's Funeral Home in Horseheads, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 10:00 am at St. Mary Our Mother Church, Horseheads, NY. He will be laid to rest at St. Mary Our Mother Cemetery with Military Honors immediately following.
As family and friends come together to celebrate his remarkable life, they will hold dear the countless memories and stories that reflect a life well-lived. From his playful spirit on the golf course to joyful family gatherings, Bill's presence was a source of happiness and strength. May his spirit continue to inspire those who knew him, reminding us of the beauty found in shared moments and the significance of family, friendship, and love. Rest in peace, Bill.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the Tidewell Hospice Foundation in Bill's memory to support ongoing research and assistance for others facing this challenging disease.