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William Moraites Obituary
Park Ridge - Bill Moraites, 65, passed peacefully on Sunday, May 9th, from COVID-19 pneumonia. Known throughout NY and NJ as a rock musician, jazz-smith, web-maestro, and small business storyteller, Bill was loved for his quick humor, continual encouragement, and incredible guitar playing. Few who heard him play forgot the experience.
Bill was born in New York City in 1956. He grew up in Alpine NJ and attended Tenafly High School where he wowed Bergen County and beyond with his band Smokercraft, playing clubs such as CBGBs, Max's Kansas City, and the Red Rail. He married his high-school sweetheart, Carrie Falconer Moraites, who worked and created with him side-by-side for 44 years.
Their greatest creations were their children, who they raised with laughter and inspiration in Erie PA and Park Ridge NJ. Bill never missed a chance to say "I love you." Bill's humility kept his son Myles (32) grounded as he broke into the music industry as a producer for artists such as Beyoncé, Eminem, and Lil Wayne. Bill's entrepreneurial spirit guided his son Chris (31) as he built startups in NJ and California. Bill's knowledge and curiosity inspired his daughter Elizabeth (28) to become a market researcher in Connecticut. Bill will be long remembered by the countless businesses he helped and the many who heard his music.
The family plans to hold a Celebration of Life in late June after everyone has been fully vaccinated. In lieu of flowers, please contact us through the website billmoraites.com to tell us your stories about Bill and to let us know if you'd like to attend his memorial. We ask that everyone be fully vaccinated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Moraites
Elsie Angiono
June 3, 2021
I knew Bill and his parents very well. I saw Bill grow up with his siblings. I knew his artistic talents were inspiring to many. He will be missed by all.
Patti Wojcik
May 28, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Moraites family.
Dale Healey
May 18, 2021
When I heard that Bill was in the hospital I texted him to ask how he was doing, He told me, as only Bill would, that he was getting a little better each day. I wished him well and that was the last time we communicated. Bill was such an incredible, wonderful guy. Easy going, quick-witted and very talented. It was my privilege to sing with him on numerous occasions, especially at Franco's which I think was his favorite gig. His family always came to see him. Bill loved for me to sing "Almost Like Being in Love". I was away in FL when I found out the distressing news that Bill was on a ventilator. I never thought for a moment that Bill wasn't going to pull through. During my stay in FL I must have heard the song "Almost Like Being in Love" on the radio 3 times. I was hoping it was a sign that Bill was getting better but now I know it was Bill reaching out to me to say goodbye. It will take me a very long time to process that Bill is gone. He touched my life and he will always be in my heart. I send my deepest condolences to his entire family.
Dale Healey
Carol Gregory Ippolito
May 16, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Stephen Russo
May 16, 2021
An extraordinary man, and extraordinary
Friend.
He lived on a one way street called “Giving”.
I was so blessed to have landed within sight of that street.
Someone was watching out for me when we crossed paths.
A life teacher by his unassuming and modest way.
Always cool and calm and
made so many feel that anything is possible. That was his purpose.
You could almost imagine jumping off a cliff, holding his hand, and on the way down, he’d look over his glasses and make a face without a word that conveyed “ really?”
He was inspirational , a learner and a teacher..
He took no credit for all the successes of others for which he was responsible.
Thank you Bill. I hear your laugh, I hear your music and I’ll always feel your love.
I will never forget you.
Steve.
Bruce A. Bennett
May 16, 2021
Bruce A. Bennett
May 16, 2021
Ray Nassr
May 16, 2021
Sending my deepest sympathy and love to Carrie, Myles, Chris, Elizabeth and the whole Moraites family. ❤
Rick Young
May 15, 2021
Still having a hard time wrapping my head around this my friend. Just know you will be missed forever, and you were always a gentleman and a good friend. My prayers to your immediate and extended family.
Lizzylu
May 15, 2021
I love you more than anything Dad. Forever, you are my only one ♥
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