William Rosenfeld PhD

William Rosenfeld PhD obituary, New Hartford, NY

William Rosenfeld PhD

William Rosenfeld Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Mark C. Bentz Funeral Service, Inc. on May 18, 2023.

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William Rosenfeld, 97, of Utica, formerly of Clinton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 14, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center.
He was born on January 2, 1926 in Cleveland, OH, a son of the late Paul R. and Diane Rosenfeld. William graduated from high school, college and went on to earn his doctorate in American Studies. On September 11, 1955, he married Irma Radest, a blessed union of 67 years. William held many teaching positions, but most recently was employed with Hamilton College as a Creative Writing Professor until his retirement. He served his country bravely in the Navy during WWII.
William is survived by his loving wife, Irma; his children, Daniel, Andrew and Nina; his grandsons, Eliot, Zach and Nikita; and a great-grandson, Alex.
In keeping with William's wishes there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
In memory of William, please consider donations to charity of your choice.
Arrangements are with the Mark C. Bentz Funeral Service Inc., New Hartford.
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May 12, 2025

Nancy Avery Dafoe posted to the memorial.

June 9, 2023

Heidi Ravven and Eric Evans planted trees.

May 25, 2023

Nancy Dafoe posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Nancy Avery Dafoe

May 12, 2025

Forever grateful for his guidance, his teachings, and his friendship. Will always miss him in this world.

Single Memorial Tree

Heidi Ravven and Eric Evans

Planted Trees

Nancy Dafoe

May 25, 2023

Bill was quite simply the best teacher I ever had. I would not be a writer today without him. We became good friends, and I am forever grateful to have known him. He was one of the pioneers at Kirkland College and in undergraduate creative writing programs, something not mentioned in his obituary and yet so important. Thinking of his wonderful writer wife Irma and his three adult children he was so proud of, wishing them my deepest sympathies.

Nancy Dafoe

May 25, 2023

I just talked with him on the phone a couple of weeks ago. He is the best teacher I ever had, one of the greatest friends, and a rare blessing to humanity. My love and tears to all his family. He loved each of you so much. He never stopped telling me how amazing Irma is. I can't believe he is gone. But then, he will always be in our hearts.

Matthew R. Stegle and the Members of the Frederick Symphony Orchestra

May 18, 2023

Condolences to Andrew (Andy) and his entire family on William's passing. A long and fulfilling life on this earth.

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Mark C. Bentz Funeral Service, Inc.

13 Oxford Road, New Hartford, NY 13413

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Sign William Rosenfeld's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 12, 2025

Nancy Avery Dafoe posted to the memorial.

June 9, 2023

Heidi Ravven and Eric Evans planted trees.

May 25, 2023

Nancy Dafoe posted to the memorial.