William J. Spakowski, 1936-2017

Mr. William J. Spakowski 80, passed away on Friday March 24th, 2017. At St. Ann’s Community in Rochester, NY.

 William was born in Brooklyn, NY., on June 2nd, 1936 the son of the late John M. and Muriel (Smillie) Spakowski.

 A veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1955, until his honorable discharge in 1959.  

On November 12, 1960 in Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church in Wyandanch, NY he was wed to the former Joan F. Kollmer. The couple Shared in a union blessed with over 56 years of marriage.

 Mr. Spakowski retired in 1999 from Utica National Insurance Company after over 30 years of service as their Facilities Manager.

A Devout Catholic and parishioner of St. Joseph’s Church in Dolgeville, William had a great passion for his Church where he volunteered much of his time to lend a hand with many parish activities and chores. He was also a member and an officer of the Knights of Columbus.

William was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather; his life centered around his family. He was a skilled woodworker and an avid hunter.

William is survived by his beloved Wife, Joan; his children and their spouses, William J., Jr. and Diane Spakowski of Chicago, Joseph G. and Mary Spakowski of Rochester, Mary Anne and Paul Thomas of Washington, DC, Margaret and John Nava of TX, and Joanne and Jeremy Woodworth of Rochester;  fifteen grandchildren, William and Claire Spakowski, Brandon Spakowski, Trent Carrig, Samantha Spakowski, Arthur and Nikki Finch, Amber and Simon Leavitt. Kathleen, Molly, and Marie Spakowski, Erik Thomas, Mekala, Gabrielle, and Richard Nava, Jory Woodworth, and Joseph Woodworth; 3 great-grandchildren, Mathew Finch, Michael Finch, and Calvin Leavitt. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and in-laws. He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard and a sister Patricia.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 28th, 2017 at 11 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, 31 North Helmer Ave. in Dolgeville where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Terence Healey.  Calling hours will be held on Monday evening from 4-7pm at the Roberts Funeral Home, 3 East Faville Ave., Dolgeville, NY. Spring burial with Military Honors will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Dolgeville.

 In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Church, 31 North Helmer Ave., Dolgeville, NY 13329. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

A message of sympathy or a remembrance of William may be sent to the family at www.robertsfuneralcare.com.

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