William Gilmer

Bill Gilmer, 91, of Inverness, FL, passed away on July 15, 2021. Bill was born in Kings Park, NY, on May 2, 1930, to parents Anna and Thomas Gilmer.

He graduated from Hofstra University, receiving a master’s degree in Education. Bill was a retired teacher from Three Village School District, Setauket, NY. He served as Director of Nursing for several different facilities for over 20 years following his retirement from teaching.

Bill was a Korean War veteran and a longtime member of American Legion Post 944 and Knights of Columbus Council 821, Kings Park, NY and K of C Council 6391, Lady of Fatima, Inverness FL. Bill was a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus. He volunteered with Catholic Charities and was a faithful parishioner at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Inverness.

Bill married Joan Vanik on August 3, 1957.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Joan; sons, Michael and his wife Yvonne, Bill, David and his wife Crystal and Patrick.  He was the beloved grandfather of Desmond, Zackary, Mollie, Andrew, Gabriel, Ryan and Sophia; a great grandfather to Declan, Caden and Vanessa; and a loving Dogparent to Rinnie, Bandit, Brandy, Tina, Bailey, Pine, Dixie, Tina 2, and Tipsy.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Heinz Funeral Home in Inverness, with a Wake Service at 7:00 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Inverness.  Interment at Florida National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church.

Arrangements by Heinz Funeral Home & Cremation, Inverness, FL.  www.heinzfh.com

https://www.chronicleonline.com/lifestyle/veterans/local-veteran-celebrates-90th-birthday-recounts-life-of-service/article_ac1b5618-8a26-11ea-99c3-17a9a70bd89c.html

https://www.chronicleonline.com/lifestyle/veterans/korean-war-vet-celebrates-90th-birthday-family-organizes-surprise-parade/article_a6a4d2d6-9066-11ea-b5d5-c74ab7b88703.html