Bill Welles

William "Bill" Welles
July 2, 1949 – October 25, 2025
William "Bill" Welles, 76, of North Haven, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, surrounded by love at Vitas Healthcare in Waterbury. Born in Clinton, Iowa, on July 2, 1949, Bill was the son of the late Darrow and Louise (Clow) Welles.
He leaves behind his two daughters, Michelle Ferraro (Andrew) of North Branford and Christine Welles (Stephen Gambardella) of East Haven, who were his pride and joy. He was also the very proud grandfather of Madelyn, Mason, and Andrew Ferraro, who always brought a smile to his face.
Bill attended Elmira College from 1971-1972. He then finished his schooling from 1973-1975 graduating Cum Laude from Ithaca College with a Bachelor Degree in Arts and a Major degree in Sociology and Anthropology. He spent more than 30 years as an insurance adjuster, helping families through tough times with patience and understanding. He was a hard worker and a good listener.
Outside of work, Bill was happiest on the ski slopes of Killington, Vermont or enjoying a tennis match in the warmer months. He was a member of the New Haven Ski Club for over 30 years and enjoyed many winters doing activities with the club. Being a part of the ski club he always looked forward to the holidays where he would help raise money for the Yale New Haven Children's Hospital Toy Closet program. He taught his daughters to give back by having them assist in shopping and delivering those toys. He loved traveling, especially cross-country adventures with his family, discovering new places like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, the Pacific Coast Highway, and Mexico.
Music was another one of Bill's passions. He had a real gift for making mix tapes - rock, soul, country, and blues - all blended together to match his mood or the moment. His mixes became the soundtrack for parties (he was the life of the party in his prime), road trips, and everyday life.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Avenue, East Haven. A service will follow at 6:30 PM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Yale New Haven children's Hospital toy closet program.