William F. Schloemer IV, affectionately known as "Big Bill," passed away on June 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and integrity. Born on February 10, 1946, in New York City to Frances and William Schloemer, Bill spent his early years in the Bronx before moving upstate to Montgomery, New York at the age of 8. There, surrounded by farmland and open skies, Bill and his younger brother Gregory embarked on many adventures, dabbling in what some might call "healthy mischief."
Bill's teenage years were colored by his passions for baseball, cars, and rock 'n roll. Every night, he and Gregory would listen to the radio, letting the sounds of the fifties and early sixties rock them to sleep. His favorite song, "The Wanderer," became a fitting anthem for his early interest in life's journeys and the ladies who crossed his path.
After graduating Valley Central High School in Montgomery, NY, Bill charted his own course by enlisting in the US Navy, where he served as an air traffic controller on the USS Kearsarge during the Vietnam War. Bill was deeply dedicated to serving others, a pride which was often visually reflected by his favorite Navy hat and pins. He credited his "nerves of steel” with the time he spent in the Navy, a trait he carried into his career as a stockbroker and financial consultant.
Upon his return from Navy service, he enjoyed the camaraderie and excitement of bachelorhood, slinging drinks behind the bar at Dino’s in Middletown with his brother and one of his best mates, Larry Marina.
Bill would go on to complete his bachelor's degree in economics and business and later his master’s degree. His professional journey took him to Prudential Securities and later Raymond James Financial Services. Known for his patience, calm demeanor, and adept business acumen, he enjoyed a successful career as a financial consultant and broker.
Bill’s journey as a bachelor would end when fate intervened and met Margaret "Margie" Davis. Together, Bill and Margie built a beautiful life, raising two wonderful children, Crystal Miller and William F. Schloemer V, also known as "Little Billy”. While he was a generous provider to his family, he led with his heart and playful spirit, always ready with a reassuring word, smile, or joke.
In his later years, Bill's joy came from the simple pleasures of life. He relished political humor, leisurely shopping trips to Sam's Club, and proudly sharing his Republican viewpoints. His love for cars, especially his cherished Corvette, and rock ‘n roll remained undiminished. Fulfilling his dream of becoming a "man of leisure," Bill secured a home in The Villages, Florida, a vibrant senior community where the drinks were cheap and the rock 'n roll played on.
With his encouraging, positive nature, Bill had an extraordinary ability to uplift those around him, offering unwavering support and optimism in every situation. These same traits fueled Bill's resilience during his battle with stage IV colon and liver cancer, earning him the title of "miracle man" among his doctors. His tolerance for pain and remarkable ability to rebound were nothing short of inspirational.
Bill is survived by his son, William F. Schloemer V (Little Billy); his daughter, Crystal Miller, her husband Kyle, and their children Riley and Noah; his brother Gregory Schloemer and wife Susan; his sister Gail Schloemer and husband Bob Tendy; and many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.
As we say goodbye to Big Bill, we remember a man who served his country with pride, loved his family with a fierce devotion, and lived life with a twinkle in his eye and a rock 'n roll soundtrack in his heart. Here's to you, Big Bill—may your legacy continue to inspire us to live life with love, service, and integrity.
For more about Bill please visit https://everloved.com/life-of/william-schloemer/