William E. "Bill" Yaw

William E. “Bill” Yaw

WATKINS GLEN- Age 89 years and 364 days, passed away January 21, 2023 at home in Watkins Glen.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday (January 29) from 1pm-4pm at the Moose Lodge, 2096 CR-14, Montour Falls).  A brief service with military honors will be held at 2:00pm.  

Bill was born January 22, 1933 in Hector, NY, the son of Vernon and Eva (Clark) Yaw.  After graduating from Watkins Glen High School, he enlisted in the United States Army.  He received distinctions for Sharpshooter Rifle Weapons qualification and Good Conduct Medal. Upon completing his honorable service, he returned home.  He worked as a truck driver for various local companies, including Suit-Kote Corporation and D&T Franzese in Watkins Glen, and RC Billing in Bath. 

He was a longtime member of the Moose Lodge and Mechanics Club in Montour Falls. 

Bill loved fishing, his family, and especially the little ones. 

He is survived by his children, Debra (Gary) Schmidt, Bonita (Mark) Specchio, William “Billy” Yaw, and Jackie Yaw Leszyk (Joe Crane); life partner, Maxine Cunningham; grandchildren, Eric (Megan) Schmidt, Lindsay (Ben) Winstead, Mark Jr. (Karen) Specchio, Matthew Specchio (Mallory McCullouch), Cassidy Yaw, Tai Givin, Cassandra (Chris) Crout, and Danielle Leszyk; 14 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and the Burger King Coffee Club and staff! 

He was predeceased by his parents; brother Phillip (Mary) Yaw; and sisters, Shirley (John) Fazzary, and Beverly (Dick) Lodge. 

The family wishes to thank all the Schuyler Hospital staff, especially nurse Mary Jo Rhoads, and thank you to the Watkins Glen Volunteer Fire Department.  Memorial donations may be made to the Watkins Glen Fire Company, PO Box 429, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

A memory of Bill or condolences for his family may be left in his obituary at RoyceChedzoy.com. Arrangements with Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home.