William John Keating

William (Bill) John Keating, a dedicated family man, passed away unexpectedly on April 30, 2024, in his home of over 40 years that he shared with his beloved wife Eileen, in Laurel, NY. Born on June 26, 1940, in Queens NY and raised in Connecticut, Bill later moved to Long Island where he led a fulfilling life filled with service to his family and to his small community.

After serving his country in the Army, Bill worked for more than 35 years as a linesman for LILCO. After his retirement, he continued working as a crew supervisor for Asplund, where he was known as a kind and fair manager and was very popular with his crew.

He married only once, to the love of his life, Eileen. Along with Eileen’s two girls from a previous marriage, Darlene and Veronica, together they formed a loving family. Before long, Darlene would give them three grandchildren; Jaimie, Chelsea and Ian, who would each go on to have a child each, Airyha, Toshi and Uriah, who all brought much joy and love into their lives. Veronica married the love of her life, Stephen Perina, and they made their home in the Finger Lakes of New York.

Although his family was the priority of his life, his passion was flying. His ’59 Cessna was his pride and joy, and the many “fly boy” friends he over the years were truly treasured.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Margaret Keating. He is survived by his wife Eileen, daughters Darlene Winkleman and Veronica (Stephen) Perina, his three grandchildren and three great grandchildren, his sister Peggy Parlapiano, and her children Paul and Lisa McKenzie, and their children, as well as his brother John (Barbara) Keating. He also had many loving siblings-in-law and nieces and nephews, too numerous to count here, but all equally loved.

You only had to shake Bill’s hand once to know the strength of his character and the depth of his kindness. He touched so many lives in so many quite ways, never looking for platitudes or appreciation. There are not many men like Bill left these days, but if you are lucky enough to have one in your life, take the time show them the gratitude they deserve.