Obituary of William Richard Filer Sr.

William “Bill” Filer Sr., 91, a lifelong resident of Greenwich, passed away Friday, January 5, 2024, at Wesley Healthcare Center.

He was born on September 23, 1932, to the late Wesley and Elizabeth (Williams) Filer.

Bill attended Greenwich Central School.  Following graduation, he joined the US Navy and served during the Korean War, from 1951 to 1955.

Bill is survived by his wife Alma (Duket) Filer, who he married on Valentines Day in 1985; also surviving him are his six children, from his first marriage, William R. (Andrea) Filer Jr., Hollie (John) Rapp, Cindy MacQuinn, Wanda Robinson, Thomas (Donna Hayes) Filer, and Jacqueline (Chris) Conine; step-children, Barbara Blanchfield and Edward (Terri) Blanchfield; sister-in-law, Dorothy Filer; many grandchildren, step-grandchildren and great grandchildren, who deeply mourn his loss; aunt, Joan Williams; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Gerald Filer, son in law David MacQuinn and granddaughter, Jessica MacQuinn.

Bill was an avid golfer and a member of the Battenkill Country Club in Middle Falls.  He attended his favorite course from the time he was a young teen up until this year.  There was no better way for Bill to start the day than to go to the golf course and play a round.  He enjoyed helping others with their golf game, as it was truly his passion! Last year he enjoyed taking his great grandson golfing with him and showing him his favorite golf course.  Bill was a six-time club champion and the club’s first hall of fame inductee. Bill loved following all sports and was a NY Giants fan. 

Bill also enjoyed going hunting and trapping every year with his sons and grandsons.  When they were younger, they would also go ice fishing. Alma and Bill enjoyed many years traveling with their RV to Florida for the winter.  They made many friends during their time there.  They also enjoyed many years of camping together, locally and around New York State. They also traveled around the United States including a trip to Alaska. 

Bill was an electrician by trade serving in the IBEW for many years.  When he worked for the IBEW, he travelled for work to other states including Wyoming, Colorado, and Texas.  In his younger years he tried his hand at insurance work, owning and running a small supermarket, as well as a few other ventures.  He was always busy, never one to sit still, even building his own addition on his home that he shared with Alma.  Bill was a member of the Greenwich Elks Club #2223, enjoying many happy times there.

Bills wishes were to be cremated, he will be interred with full military honors, at 11 am on Friday, January 12, 2024, in the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd, Schuylerville, NY, 12871.

Following his interment family and friends are invited to a reception in his honor at the Greenwich Elks Club, #2223, 130 Bulson Rd, Greenwich, NY, 12834. 

Donations in his memory may be made to the Almost Home Animal Rescue, 312 Windy Hill Rd, Greenwich, NY, 12834 or a charity of choice. 

Online condolences and messages to the family can be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com.