William G. Donaghey, of Baldwinsville, passed away on September 3, 2022 at the age of 76.  Born to Scottish immigrants, William and Sarah, Bill was a lifelong resident of CNY and an active member of his Baldwinsville Community.  Over the years he volunteered many hours to the GBAC, McHarrie’s Legacy and as a host parent to many Rotary Exchange Students.  He enjoyed a long career at the USPS, one of his favorite roles was as the Postmaster of Fair Haven, NY.  Bill spent his “retirement” helping Barb run their shop, The Nantucket Cat, baking many batches of cookies to deliver to friends and as a part time bus driver for Baldwinsville Central Schools. 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Barbara (Beattie), his daughter, Katrina, grandson, Aidan, son, Kyle,  granddaughter, Lucie, exchange daughters Manu Balthazart and Kim Schick and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, John and Matthew. 

Quick and intelligent, Bill used these attributes for mischief in his younger years (much to his parent’s chagrin) but as a problem solver as he matured.  He had an incredible head for numbers. Bill was a determined person who loved challenges.  From charming a Scottish girl he met at a dance to give him a chance (and eventually agree to marry him and make a life together here in the US) to never letting a winter storm warning stop him from driving anyplace to always figuring out how to fix something for those he cared about, he would go above and beyond to make things happen.  He always found the perfect card for any occasion and loved bringing flowers home for Barb.  He loved being on the road, country drives to nowhere in particular, always with a stop for an ice cream cone.  Barb and Bill traveled often.  To cat shows, where they made many friends, to Scotland to visit family and Europe to visit former exchange students.  Bill equally enjoyed playing host to visiting family and friends, touring them around and introducing them to our area. He loved having Rotary exchange students come back and visit as adults, with children and partners of their own.  He loved to grill and cook and feed people their favorites. He loved building, fixing and being creative.  He was never too busy to help others.  He loved his pets and we are certain his adored dog, Nelson, and cats, Ewan and Edgar, are by his side once again.  Bill was generous, loving and a devoted friend, grandfather, father and husband.   He, without a doubt,  loved nothing more than being in the company of his wife, Barb.  We are infinitely grateful to Hospice of CNY that he was able to come home for his final moments, with Barb at his side.  Remembrance will be at a later date.  In lieu of flowers please do something nice for someone else in Bill’s memory.