William Edward McGarr, 82, passed away on March 16, 2024, in Leesburg, Florida.  He was born May 30, 1941, in Glens Falls, New York, to the late William N. McGarr and Leah G. (Brace) McGarr Hadley.

William (Bill) was a proud alumnus of St. Mary's Academy in Glens Falls, NY, graduating in 1959.  He enjoyed playing Varsity football, basketball, baseball, and track.  His friends spoke of his casual charm, wit, and magnetic personality.  He was a member of St. Alphonsus Church and found solace in his faith during his last years.

Bill spent his younger years working alongside his father and grandfather at McGarr's Capital Grill and with his uncle, Peter Brilling, at his Mobile gas station.

Bill married his high school sweetheart, Joan Burlett, on March 11,1960 and shared 18 happy years with their seven children until her death in 1978.   He later married Terry Quinn on November 1, 1986, embracing her two children and adding a son of their own to their family.  They shared 37 happy years together until her death in 2023.

Bill served in the United States Navy as an Electronic Technician from 1959 to 1963 aboard the USS Fulton, serving our country during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

In his professional life, Bill was known for his dedication and hard work.  After his discharge from the Navy, he had a successful career at Ciba-Geigy Corporation from 1964 until their closing in 1989.  Following this, Bill was employed as the Director of The Warren County Veterans Service Agency from May 1989 until his retirement in August 2009.  Bill's work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Outside of his professional life, Bill was involved in various military associations and organizations, including the American Legion Post #233 and the Queensbury VFW Post #6196, where he served as their commander 1970-1981; 1988-1990; and 1991-1992.  In addition, he served as the commander of the District 3 Department of NY VFW from 2000-2001 and enjoyed being the head of The Voice of Democracy scholarship program for 9 years.  He found joy in serving his country and supporting his fellow veterans.

During his free time, Bill, or Moose as he was affectionately known, enjoyed 13 years of coaching his sons' little league baseball teams, camping, and traveling.  In retirement, he looked forward to spending time with his family at St. Pete Beach and cruising the open waters.

Bill is survived by his ten children: William McGarr Jr. (Debbie), VA; Bryan McGarr (Sabine), Germany; David McGarr (Sherri), NY; Jeffrey McGarr (Heather), CT; Deborah Clevenger (George), FL; Harold McGarr (Shayla), CO; Nelson McGarr (Megan), NY; Kristopher Kennedy (Nelson), NY; Kellianne Martini (Paul), GA; and Daniel McGarr (Megan), VA; 26 grandchildren,19 great grandchildren; his loving sisters, Maureen Scopel (Anthony), FL; Mitzi McGarr (Charles Kinsey), CO; his brother and sister in laws, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

William is preceded in death by his wives, his parents, and his brother Patrick J McGarr.

Bill was easy to know and like.  Many of the neighborhood children thought of him as a second father.   He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  His legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family will be forever cherished.

A funeral mass will be held at St Mary's Catholic Church, 62 Warren Street, Glens Falls, NY, at 11am on Friday April 19th.  Following this he will be laid to rest at St Alphonsus Cemetery.

Friends and family are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Bill's life and legacy at The Queensbury VFW, 32 Luzerne Road, Glens Falls, NY following the services.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Queensbury, NY.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette Stree, Queensbury, NY 12804.