William "Bill" C. Budin Sr.

William "Bill" C. Budin Sr., 83, of West Milford, passed away peacefully at home with his son, Bill, and daughter-in-law, Denise by his side on February 13, 2025. Bill was born on August 27, 1941, in Weehawken, N.J and was an only child. After graduating from Weehawken High School, he worked construction with his father for a number of years before joining his father-in-law working for an Electronics company in New York City. In the late 1980’s, Bill transitioned to the Maritime industry working for Farrell Lines, Inc., a U.S. Steamship company where he found immense pride and fulfillment in his 15 year career as a Purchasing Manager.

Bill was a devoted husband to his beloved wife and soulmate, Barbara (Koch), sharing a life full of love and laughter for 49 years and residing in North Bergen, N.J. before they retired to Cape May, N.J in August of 2001. Though Bill's beloved wife, Barbara, passed in 2014, their love and memories continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew them.

 In 2017, Bill experienced an acute health crisis which caused a complete loss of vision within a few hours after wakening up one morning. This life changing event had a devastating impact and Bill never quite adjusted to his new life. Bill moved to live with his son and daughter-in-law in their West Milford, N.J. home so they could care for him for the remainder of his life. 

Bill was strong-willed and stubborn, but he also had an enormous heart for the love he shared with his wife and his canine companions. He was known for his sense of humor and his love for sharing a good joke. He enjoyed talking about sports (Go Giants!), talking about the weather, recanting memories of times past and telling a good story with friends and family over a red stripe or sipping a glass of Jameson whiskey on the rocks. It was a core part of his personality and how he connected with others. His playful spirit was complemented by his deep love for animals, especially his loyal Basset Hound, Russ, who brought him endless joy and companionship.

Bill reveled the outdoors, finding joy and excitement in hunting, fishing, the tranquility of boating, and finding solace while watching sunsets on the beach. The Cayman Islands held a special place in his heart as he often reminisced many cherished memories of sitting on white-sandy beaches, enjoying the company of friends with drink in hand while the sounds of reggae and calypso music played in the background. He took great pleasure on the laid-back vibe his Caribbean paradise offered.

Bill also loved to cook and garden, taking great pride with the tomatoes and herbs he grew every season. He enjoyed dinning out often and liked to indulge in a perfectly cooked prime rib and baked potato. He had a diverse taste in music and liked to go see the local jazz musicians perform at the local bars.

Bill's greatest treasure was his family. He is survived by his only son, William "Bill" Jr., and daughter-in-law, Denise, who will forever carry his spirit. Bill's legacy of laughter, love, and enthusiasm for life will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. He leaves behind a world that was better for his presence and a family that will forever cherish his memory.

A visitation will be held in honor of Bill at The Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, Inc. in Butler, NJ. on February 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 12:00 PM. Bill's final resting place will be at George Washington Memorial Park Cemetery, in Paramus, N.J. following the service.