William Moran

Preston - William "Bill" Moran, 67, of Preston, passed on early Saturday morning, March 11, 2006, in the company of his loving family.

He was known to many as "Lucky," "Wild Bill," or "Grumpy" to his grandchildren. Although his health had been failing, his death was sudden.

He was the son of the late John Patrick and Viola (Seltzer) Moran, of Sprague, born on Sept. 30, 1938.

Bill is survived by his two daughters, Cynthia Moran, of Norwich, and Kathy Brandon, of Sprague. He leaves four grandchildren, Amber Arpin, and Michael, Conal, and Taylor Brandon, and step-grandson, Todd Startz, of Gales Ferry. His former wife, Roberta Rothstein, lives in Norwich. Bill is also survived by his two loving brothers, his older brother, John Moran and his wife, Alice, of Griswold and their son Johnny, and Bill's younger brother Arthur Moran Sr. and his wife, Joan Moran, of Preston, and their sons Arthur Jr., Michael, and Greg, and their families.

Bill had a passion for fast cars and racing. He was the 1963 Championship car owner at Waterford Speed Bowl, driven by Walt Dombrowski. He served in the Army and was honored for his physical fitness. He was the former owner of the Western Grain Store in Baltic. After retiring, he started his own family-run landscaping business. He prided himself in his hard work, and also enjoyed boating, good food, great friends, and a close family. Though he only had two daughters, there were many who called him "Dad." We would like to remember him as he was, in constant adoration of women, holding court with laughter and his own blend of humor.

His presence will be greatly missed by his Tuesday night dinner friends. He was always himself, and that was his charm.

Bill's family invites all to attend a spiritual memorial of his life, beginning at Park Congregational Church in Norwich at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 17.

Immediately following there will be calling hours, in the form of an Irish wake, beginning at 5:30 at the Knights of Columbus in Taftville, one of his favorite hang-outs. All who knew him are welcome.

Burial of his cremains will take place at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are by Labenski Funeral Home.

Donations in Bill's honor can be made to the Protectors of Animals, Inc., P.O. Box 24, South Glastonbury, CT 06073, Phone 860-569-0722.