William Robert Werner

William R. Werner, 100, of Florham Park, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on September 15, 2024. 

William was born in Newark's North Ward and attended First Ave Elementary School followed by Central High School, graduating with the class of 1943. After graduation, William enlisted in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant, while serving in England, Germany and France, as a topographic draftsman, during World War II.

After the war William returned to Newark and became a Newark fireman, working for the next 18 years, assigned to 15 Engine, 1 Truck, and the Arson Squad.

Upon leaving the Newark Fire Department, he then worked for the Newark Water Department as a heavy equipment operator and was a member of the Operating Engineers, Local 825.

After many years with the Newark Water Department, he then took a position with the City of Newark, as Supervisor of the Division of Motors until his retirement.  Soon after retiring, he moved to Florham Park, where he volunteered with the Florham Park Memorial First Aid Squad, serving as their ambulance driver for over 10 years.

William enjoyed spending time with his family and helping others when needed.  He was a master craftsman and was always there to help repair and build things around the home. He had many novel ideas for home improvement projects.

During the winter months after his retirement he vacationed with his wife, Catherine in St. Petersburg, FL.  He also enjoyed the Jersey Shore, spending summers in Lake Como. In the winter months he was an ardent Jets and Giants fan, while in the spring and summer months he rooted for the Yankees.

We remember him as a kind and generous person always going out of his way to help others.

Devoted father of Virginia Werner, William Werner and his longtime girlfriend Donna Scarpone.  Cherished grandfather of Rachael M. Nagy, her husband Chris, Ryan W. Werner and his wife Margaret.  Proud great-grandfather of Charles Owen Nagy. 

William was pre-deceased by his wife Catherine T. Werner of 63 years, his son Robert J. Werner, and his parents William and Julia Werner. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Thursday from 2-4 & 7-9pm.  Funeral on Friday, assembling at the funeral home at 9am, followed by the funeral mass at Holy Family Church in Florham Park at 10am.  Interment at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in William’s name to the Florham Park Memorial First Aid Squad, see donation box below for details…..

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