Harry William Goetz

Harry William "Bill" Goetz, 95, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born to Rhoda Edwards and Harry James Goetz on August 24, 1929, in Paterson, NJ, he lived a life defined by hard work, adventure, and unwavering devotion to his family.
As a young man, Bill was an avid outdoorsman and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1951. He served on active duty until 1954 aboard the USS Edward H. Allen (DE-531) and remained in the Naval Reserves until 1971. In 1952, he married Maria Thaler, and together they built a home in the Catskill region of New York, raising three children: Theresa, William, and Thomas.
A master tradesman, Bill started as a plumber before transitioning to well drilling in 1969. Over the next five decades, he earned a stellar reputation for his skill, reliability, and dedication to his work. His expertise left a lasting imprint on his community, ensuring access to clean water for countless families and businesses.
Bill had a deep love for animals, especially his cats. Over the years, he fondly spoke of his favorite dog, Queenie, whom he missed dearly. He delighted in feeding the geese each summer, who would eagerly rush to meet him when he arrived with his daily loaf of bread. Known affectionately as "Poppy" to his great-grandson Richie, he cherished their time together, sharing ice pops and playful pillow tosses.
In 2004, Bill married Rose, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Over the next 20 years, they created unforgettable memories, standing by each other through all of life's joys and challenges.
Bill is predeceased by his parents and sister Barbara White. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Goetz; his children, Theresa Joseph of Ithaca, NY (Russ Cornwall), William Harry Goetz of Amelia Island, FL and Ferndale, NY (Momi), and Thomas Goetz of Ferndale, NY (Liz); his stepdaughter, Missy (Tom) Hallenbeck; his grandchildren, Isaac Joseph, Sydney Goetz, Jesslynn Goetz, Becky Thorpe (Jamie), and Sarah Hallenbeck; and his great-grandson, Richard Thorpe. He is also remembered fondly by many dear friends and extended family members.
A graveside service will be held at Sullivan County Veterans Cemetery, Sunset Lake Rd, Liberty, NY 12754 on Sunday, June 1st at 11am with full military honors.
Arrangements under the care of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, for further information call 845-434-7363m or visit www.colonialfamilyfuneralhomes.com