William B. Earl, Sr., passed away at home with his family by his side, on December 25, 2008, after a year long illness.

Born in Ithaca in 1934, Bill was a son of the late Charles and Jennie (Hammond) Earl. After graduating from Dryden High School, he joined the U.S. Marines where he proudly served his country and was the recipient of the National Defense Service, the United Nations Service and the Korean Service Medals. Upon his honorable discharge and his return to the Ithaca area he married his loving wife, Mildred "Milly" (Carlisle) Earl, who survives him. Bill and Milly started their family in the Ithaca area and relocated to Lansing where they have resided for nearly 50 years. He retired after 32 years of service with NY Telephone Co., where he served as a Union Steward for many years. Bill was a past member of Lansing Lions Club, a former Little League coach, and spent many years progressing through the ranks as a leader of Cub Scouts, Webelos and Boy Scouts with his sons. He and Milly enjoyed many memorable trips throughout the US in their RV. Bill was also a gifted artisan. He loved carving, woodworking, furniture making, oil painting, and typically always had a project of some sort in the works. His children and grandchildren are grateful to him for passing his artistic legacy to them.

In addition to his wife, Milly, Bill is survived by his son, Jeffrey B. Earl of Etna; daughter, Lynn M. (Mark) Weidman of Union, KY, and their children, Jessica and Jason Weidman; Son, Michael W. Earl of Lansing, and his children, Ryan and Nicole Earl; and his son William "Billy" B. Earl, Jr. of Ithaca. Also surviving are Bill's siblings; Charlotte Canfield of Freeville, Barbara (Bill) Foster of Groton, Jane (Ed) Salino of Hickory, NC, Robert (Evelyn) Earl of Hartford, and Roy "Chip" Earl of McLean.

 

Numerous nieces, nephews and extended family also survive Bill.

 

A memorial service, officiated by Pastor William Gottschalk-Fielding, will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at Lansing United Methodist Church.

 

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Bill in the form of a contribution are asked to kindly consider the Franziska Racker Centers, 3226 Wilkins Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850; or Hospicare of Tompkins County, 172 E. King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.

 

The family has entrusted arrangements to Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Rd., Lansing, NY. 1-800-307-5852.