75, of Peru, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at his home, under the loving care of his family and Hospice of the North Country.

Bill was born in Manhattan, NY, on July 6, 1949, the son of Charles and Barbara (Novotony) Fornecker. He graduated from Norwalk High School in Norwalk, Connecticut, in 1967 before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving from 1968 until his honorable discharge in 1972.

Following his military service, he attended Clinton Community College, earning an associate's degree in 1974. That same year, Bill began his career with the New York State Department of Corrections. He served with distinction, retiring as a lieutenant from Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, in December of 2004 - a career he took great pride in. Following retirement, Bill sought a way to stay active and began working at Hamilton Funeral Home, where he dedicated 13 years of service.

While stationed at Plattsburgh Air Force Base, Bill met the love of his life, Kathleen Marie Darrah. They were married on October 16, 1971, at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Peru. They had their only child, daughter, Kellie Kathleen, in September of 1976, and shared a life full of love and cherished memories.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Kathleen; his daughter, Kellie Lathrop, and her partner, Adlai Favreau; two granddaughters, Megan and Olivia Lathrop; step-granddaughter, McKeinzie Leikert and husband Crystfer; great-granddaughter, Nora Leikert; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law; several nieces and nephews; and several close family friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; three brothers, Charles (Mary) Fornecker, Raymond (Julie) Fornecker, and Andrew (Trudy) Fornecker; and his parents-in-law, George and Louise Darrah.

Bill was a proud member of the Elks Lodge in Keeseville, and the American Legion Post 1619 in West Plattsburgh. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Dannemora Federal Credit Union for more than 20 years.

An avid softball player, Bill participated in several men's leagues throughout the years, and also enjoyed many years of playing golf with the Dannemora Fun League. Above all, his greatest joy was being a devoted papa to his granddaughters.

Bill's family will greet guests on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 11 to Noon at St. Augustine's Church in Peru. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at Noon, with the NYS flag presentation at the conclusion. Committal prayers, military honors, and entombment will follow in St. Augustine's columbarium. A reception will follow at St. Augustine's Parish Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's name to North Country Honor Flight, Hospice of the North Country, or the Peru Rescue Squad.

Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 518-643-9055. To make a floral purchase, offer an online condolence, share a symbolic gesture, or share a photo in memory of Bill Fornecker please visit www.hamiltonfuneralhome.com