William L. "Bill" DelPrete

1968 - 2024

After many years of health concerns, William L. "Bill" DelPrete, 55, of Madison Twp., passed away at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia after a recent illness. His wife of 28 years (36 years together), with whom he shared a special love blessed from God, is the former Michele T. Pierre.

Born Dec. 5, 1968, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Carl and Ann (Grant) DelPrete.

Bill was a 1986 graduate of Scranton Central High School where he was participated in the marching and concert band, orchestra, wind ensemble and the jazz ensemble. He pursued his love of music by studying music education at Marywood College as a tuba major where he and Michele met. Being an accomplished musician, Bill played electric bass and sang in many wedding and cover bands throughout his musical career including Marquis, Take 5 and was a founding member of the Wanabees.

Bill was employed by the Scranton School District in the informational technology department where he was respected and loved for his knowledge and the manner in which he executed his responsibilities. Previously, Bill was employed at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center.

Bill enjoyed making music and watching movies/TV, especially Dr. Who, Star Trek and Star Wars. He loved spending time with his family and friends, including his fur babies through the years Cleo, Popeye, Mommy, Baby and Tux.

Bill was a gentle, loving soul who always had time to lend a helping hand. His kind, calm and selfless demeanor was a testament to his strength of character and integrity as he suffered for years with the various complications that accompany diabetes. He enjoyed many friendships that developed from his involvement with music through the years, especially those of former band mates and lifelong best friends, Alan Shields and Ronnie Pascoe. Even in the midst of his medical issues, Bill's first concern was for how it affected Michele and his loved ones. A humble, altruistic individual, Bill never wanted attention or praise for his accomplishments or the support he provided to others. He was an exceptional role model for all in the way in which he lived his life. May we all strive to be more like him.

His family would like to thank the many health care providers who showed true dedication and compassion to Bill as well as them on the journey. In particular, they are grateful to Dr. Phillip Boccagno and his staff, Dr. Roger Getts, Dr. John Prior, nurse practitioner Darlene Benjamin and the entire staff at NEPA Nephrology Associates as well as the staff at Dunmore DaVita Dialysis and everyone at Penn Presbyterian HVICU. Their approach to their vocation truly made a difference to not only the physical well-being but also the mental and spiritual well-being of the entire family.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are his sister and dear friend, Cathy DelPrete, of Scranton; as well as his sister, Mary Thomas and husband, Keith, of Ocala, Fla.; his father and mother-in-law, Jay and Peggy Pierre, of Madison Twp.; brother-in-law, John Pierre and wife, Kathy, of Moscow; sister-in-law and his kidney donor, Traci Pierre and companion, Bill Weaver, of State College; nieces and nephews, William Thomas, Amanda Pierre, Devin Pierre, Zachary Pierre and Shaun Pierre; aunts and uncles including those closest to him, Bob and Joann DelPrete, Sandra and Doug Pierre, Ceil Novajosky and Thomas and Audrey Pierre; and many dear cousins, including Mary Ann Langan, who was like a sister to Bill.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Catherine of Siena Church, 220 Church St., Moscow, with the Rev. Thomas M. Muldowney, pastor, as celebrant.

Friends and family will be received Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, Pa.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Cats & Dogs of Nay Aug Zoo, c/o 1900 E. Gibson St., Scranton, PA 18510; as well as the Gift of Life Organ Donation program.

Arrangements by Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home of Moscow, Pa.

For online condolences, visit the funeral home website or Facebook page.