FORT EDWARD – Wilmer “Bill” C. McKinney, 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 16, 2018, from complications of a recent illness.
He was born on February 14, 1933, in Glens Falls to the late Gerald and Lorena McKinney.
Bill served 12 years in the United States Navy as a Radio Operator. He continued to be a ham radio operator long after his time in the service was complete.
He had a long career in law enforcement, beginning with his job at San Quentin Prison and then as a patrol officer for the City of El Ceritto, California. After retirement, he became an active member of the Shingletown, California Fire Department, before moving to Fort Edward. After his move to New York, he became a member of the Hudson Falls American Legion, Post 574. Bill was also active in the town Republican party and attended many town meetings.
He was predeceased by his parents Lorena and Gerald McKinney; his wife, Shirley and one son, Kenny McKinney, and his two siblings, Barbara Jean Tabernilla and James McKinney.
He is survived by his children, Debra Radcliff, Billy McKinney, Tommy McKinney and Joe McKinney; his siblings, Richard “Dick” McKinney, Beatrice Moss, Garold “Skip” McKinney, Ruth Dobler, Dorothy Ray, and Margaret “Peg” Bromwell; his 13 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends may call on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
Graveside services will be conducted, with full military honors, on Wednesday, October 3, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, in the town of Stillwater.
The family would like to thank the staff of Tower 2 and Tower 5 at Glens Falls Hospital and Dr. William Parker and Dr. Kelly and his staff for the kind and compassionate care given to Bill.
Memorial donations may be sent to the CR Wood Cancer Center, 102 Park St., Glens Falls, NY 12801, the Fisher House, 79 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 or the charity of your choice.