William "Gil" Weitz

William “Gil” Weitz, 71, of Wedgefield Plantation in Georgetown, South Carolina, passed away Friday evening after a courageous battle with cancer. In his final hour, he was comforted by the love of his family, speaking with his sons and grandsons, and with his wife by his side.

Gil was born July 23, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, to Howard Banney and Dorothea Kielhurn. After his father’s passing when Gil was six, his stepfather, Lawrence Weitz, adopted him and raised him as his own.

Growing up, Gil lived throughout New York State, including several locations in Dutchess County and the Southern Tier. His childhood was never short on adventure, especially the ever-changing menagerie of animals his family took in and the unforgettable stories that came with them – stories many of you have doubtless heard.

He graduated from Scio Central High School in 1972 and Alfred State University in 1974. While the specific positions he held and the many accolades, he earned throughout his career are too numerous to list, one thing remained constant: his dedication to providing exemplary service to his customers and his gift for forging lifelong relationships with colleagues.

Amongst his greatest joys in life were hosting family gatherings reminiscent of those from his youth where relatives and friends claimed any available horizontal surface for the night; sharing a good drink, preferably bourbon, with loved ones; and time at camp. He cherished 32 years of making memories at Madagascal Pond in Burlington, Maine – a place where he poured his heart into the “Looney Bin,” spending days by the lake and evenings around the fire with family and friends.

Gil is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Marilyn; sons William (Crysta-Anne) and Ryan (Tyler); stepdaughters Karen (Bob) and Janice (Lou); grandsons Byron and John; step-grandchildren Lucy, Colin, and Emma; nephews Charlie (Kayla) and Howard; nieces Kim (Glenn) and Emily; his dogs Trixie and Roxie; and several grand nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers Howard and Charlie; sister Betty; and niece Terry.

Private services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gil’s memory may be made to the Saint Francis Animal Center, 125 North Ridge Street, Georgetown, SC 29440, (843) 546-0780, https://www.sfanimals.org/how-you-can-help/donate/.

Online condolences may be left at www.ridgewayfh.com

Ridgeway Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 485-4242