William was born December 12, 1949 to Walter and Ruthann McGrade. He died at his home on December 21, 2016 after a period of ill health. Bill graduated from Baldwin High School in 1967. He then received his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from SUNY Binghamton in 1970. He received his Master's degree in education from SUNY Cortland. He then taught elementary school in Moravia, New York for several years. He pursued more education at Syracuse University and then taught in Camillus for many years, retiring in 2012. Bill was proud of his career as a teacher and had the opportunity to teach hundreds of students reading skills. What a great contribution!

Bill served his community by being an usher at St Mary's Catholic Church and by being on the board at the Westar Federal Credit Union. He was an avid reader and spent time at his local library. Part of his reading time was spent studying Christianity. He was strong in his faith. He could do the Times crossword puzzle quickly in pen. He was a casual golfer and enjoyed being a "member" at the local club. After his retirement he enjoyed having coffee with the guys.

He is survived by his mother Ruthann and his sister Nancy. His father predeceased him. He is also survived by Walter and Linda Priest whose family became his second family around 1970. He was like an uncle to their children, Mathew and Sarah Priest, and enjoyed the grandchildren Bryson and Abby Edwards and Tyler Priest.

Thanks go out to all of his friends and family that assisted him in the last several years. Thanks also to the doctors and staff at the cancer center where he received his treatments. Bill was very appreciative of his care. He always said "everyone is so nice". He remained positive right up to the time of his death and was planning on spending Christmas with the Priest's.
Funeral mass will be at St Mary's Church in Baldwinsville at 11:30 on Wednesday December 28th. Visitation will occur one hour prior at Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer Street, Baldwinsville, NY 13027. Burial in St Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to the charity of your choice. Or even better read a book with a child.