William R. Linnell, 75, of Downsville and formerly of Lodi, New Jersey passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton, NY.

William was born December 6, 1938 in East Orange, NJ, the son of the late Joseph and Catherine (Knowles) Linnell. He proudly served his country in the U. S. Navy and was very patriotic.

Bill was a skilled woodworker and had crafted much of the wooden furniture in his home. He was a self-taught computer programmer, poet, keyboard and harmonica player as well as an amateur photographer. He enjoyed dancing; especially the two step with his partner Jean. His joyful personality and great sense of humor could keep you entertained for hours. He liked throwing parties as well as being a guest at one. In his later years, he became a talented cook who developed a specialty in Split Pea Soup. He spent his winters in Coconut Creek, Florida where he soon made many friends. He was truly a man of many interests.

William is survived by his companion, Jean Shaw; his children, Jane (Joseph) Pedone of Lodi, NJ; Susan (Gregory) Cerasani of Coconut Creek, FL; and Joseph Linnell of Lodi, NJ; his grandchildren, Joseph and Brianne Pedone of Lodi, NJ; Patricia and Michael Chacon, Bryan and Anthony Cerasani of Coconut Creek, FL; his brother, Richard (MaryAnn) Linnell of Lodi, NJ; his sisters, Joann(John) Taylor of NJ; and Cathy Linnell of CA; Jeans children, Vicki (Darryl) Houck, Debbie (Phil) ODell, Rick (Lori) Shaw, Cindy (Hans) Tuneblom, Missy (Dave) Lawrence. He was predeceased by his wife Patricia (Fedoff) Linell, his brother, Joseph Linnell, and his sister, Marilyn Linnell.

A memorial service will be held 3:00 pm on Sunday, July 20 at Colchester Community United Methodist Church, 15151 State Highway 30, Downsville, NY with Rev. Dale Ashby officiating.

Memorial Contributions in William's memory may be made to American Cancer Society, 5 Oak Street, Sidney, New York 13838.