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Tribute Wall
In Memory of
William J. "Bill" McKee
1949 - 2024
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Tim Beaver posted a condolence
Monday, June 24, 2024
We, as fraternity brothers of Bill from our Bethany days, want you to know the impact he had on many of us through our short few years in the fraternity house. The impact he had on so many in his years after he graduated was felt by us in the house at Bethany. We grieve with you as well as we celebrate his life among us! He will be well remembered by us all as he should. Blessings to all who had the pleasure to have known him! And blessings indeed to his family who had the pleasure of being a big part of his life!
From his KA brothers at Bethany!
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Joe Connors posted a condolence
Friday, May 10, 2024
Coach! I’ve been meeting to write you to thank you for your great influence on my life, probably the greatest outside of that from my parents and family. I hope that your wide perspective of the Pitch/Life will help you to see this from above. It is sent with condolences to your family. ( I remember the red and white VW van with bags of soccer balls and telltale signs of your growing family in 1981). I regret that I cannot make it in person to celebrate your life today but am sidelined by an injury . Know that I will be there in spirit.
1980, 1981 were key developmental years for me as a scrawny player on Irondquoit’s soccer team and shy student in Global studies. Your teaching and coaching styles were empowering, encouraging hard work, creativity, openness to different perspectives and celebration of success.
Drive.
Dedication.
Desire.
Determination.
Your shared game plans were life plans
Open up space for yourself.
Be Aware.
Think Ahead.
Risk a creative overlap, outside your lane.
Look back to go forward.
Talk.
Switch the field of play, approaching the goal from a different angle.
Mark your opposition and study their habits.
Winning is great but the process of progress is more lasting
Seize mistakes as learning opportunities..
And, your joking “encouragement”: Don’t loaf on me! Go home and loaf.””
You touched and made me and so many others better. You will be missed. I will do my best to roll up my sleeves and continue to pass it on to my own family, friends, yet to be friends, and my own student and mentees who call me “Coach.” I learned from the best.
“Jumpin’ Joe” Connors
IHS Class of 1981
Professor of Law
Albany Law School
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Jim McDonald posted a condolence
Friday, May 10, 2024
so very, very sad (and shocked) to hear of Bill’s passing - I worked with Bill on social studies curriculum at BOCES 2 for many, many years - what a great guy - Bill once told me that he went to Hilton Head with another couple on one of these ‘buy a timeshare’ promotional things - the other couple was interested in looking into purchasing but that he wasn’t - they just went to experience Hilton Head - ironically, he ended up purchasing the timeshare and the other couple didn’t - Bill will be greatly missed by many, many people - what a wonderful person! Jim McDonald, Churchville-Chili Senior High School (retired)
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Susan Acker posted a condolence
Friday, May 10, 2024
I was such a pleasure to have coached with Bill at FLCC. The amount I learned from him I will forever cherish. Bill had a way with the athletes that made them step up and become more than they ever thought they could be. He was kind, compassionate, honest, funny and always there to help the players learn about themselves, the sport and the team. A true gift. Bill you will be missed and thought of often, I just wish I met you earlier. I will always laugh at ambitious plays thanks to you.
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Beaver Kleehammer posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Mr McKee was my JV soccer coach at IHS and one of the most influential adults in my life.That is the highest praise an Irodequoit lacrosse player can bestow upon a non-lax person.
Mr. McKee encouraged me to apply to his alma mater, Bethany College. Surprisingly, I was accepted. When I visited, I feel in love with the beauty and mystique of the campus. I'm a proud Bison, '82.
When Bill got a job at Bishop Kearney, I agreed to be his JV soccer coach (I was V lax coach) for a one year gig. I stayed much longer as a volunteer assistant and scorekeeper.
The 2000 season was a magical run to the state finals (we lost). I had a front row seat for a Masters class in coaching. I adapted and applied many of Bill's techniques, drills and practices in my lacrosse coaching to this day.
Thank you Coach McKee!! I am a better person, father, husband and coach because of your guidance, wit and friendship. RIP!!
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Annette Bushlack lit a candle
Thursday, May 9, 2024
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Bill was a neighbor for the last 5 years, We met because I dog sat for Dempsey when they did an overnight in Buffalo. I knew immediately how much he loved Dempsey. When I met them out walking, it was so clear what a wonderful bond they had. When a dog has the kind of temperament that Dempsey has, you know it is because it has received a lot of TLC from it's human. From the time Bill learned that I love and worked with horses, he always asked how that was going - part of his nature to show an interest in you.We all know about his great sense of humor! Bill, rest in peace knowing you certainly left the world you touched in a better place. Thank you.
Fondly,
Annette Bushlack
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Mary Pettinaro lit a candle
Thursday, May 9, 2024
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We were very saddened to hear of Bill's passing. Bill was a wonderful man, coach, and friend. He coached our daughter at Nazareth High School where they won a Section V title. From the moment we met Bill, we had an instant connection with him. His love of his students, players, and the game of soccer were in a class of its own. He was a big part of our lives through those high school years, and the girls just loved him. His charismatic sense of humor and wit were contagious. We have so many wonderful memories with Bill that we will never forget. May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort and peace knowing his time on earth was impactful to many and remains unforgettable. With love and sympathy, Mary and Frank Pettinaro.
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John Mahoney posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
I took over the JV Boys Soccer team at Churchville in the Fall of 2004. That team had been coached the year before by Bill and the entire group of boys spoke of coach with such reverence and respect. When I did finally meet him I told him such and he turned the attention off himself and complimented me on my coaching w the team. He seemed to have a very humble soul for a coach who knew so much and had been coaching for so long.
Condolences to his family, friends and all his former players
John Mahoney
Churchville-Chili Boys Soccer
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Tracy L Markle posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
I was a very pregnant, last year college interpreting student and was placed in his hs classroom. His personality alone made me feel at ease. I have since spent the last 22 years in the same district. I think of him often. There is one particular memory I'd like to share. He was teaching like any other day and asked if anyone had any questions. One student raised their hand and proceeded to ask something with no relation to the current topic. It was a serious question. Mr. McKee could have continued with his lesson. He did not. He chose humanity that day. There was an opportunity and a need. He turned everything off, sat on his desk and had a difficult, open conversation with the class. I hope that all of his students recognized that in him. More importantly, I hope they all incorporated some of that into the people they encounter. God Bless!
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Danielle posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Mr. McKee aka “Coach” was such a wonderful human. I was so sad to learn of his passing. This man was a safe place, a constant encourager, quick, witty, funny, kind, and caring. The list of qualities is endless. Having him as a coach when I played basketball at Brockport was a treat. I was an average at best basketball player, but Coach was always there encouraging me, teaching me, building me up, making me laugh and helping me to relax and enjoy the game. I specifically remember one game. We were playing against Irondequoit, and I had a game. I scored early and often which was NOT typical. After each bucket, Coach was on the bench cheering so loudly: “FLUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUVIO” Hearing my name echoing through that gym was special, mostly because it was Mr. McKee who believed in me and helped me to believe in myself on and off the court. My most sincere condolences to his beautiful family and all the many who knew and loved this man. RIP Coach.
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Jim Flynn posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Robert Louis Stevenson said, “The man is a success who has lived well, loved much, and laughed often.” That was Mac. He lived well, he loved his family and friends and boy did we laugh.
So, my friend, let me say this to you "I am better for knowing you, better for loving you, better for having met you. May you be as blessed in the next life, my friend, as I was in this one by knowing you."
Jim Flynn
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Tom Thurlow uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, May 9, 2024
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I first met Bill when I played soccer with Bill at Bethany from 69-71 I saw him at 2 soccer alum gatherings here in Indianapolis and.wish I had spent more time with him.
What an amazing impactful life he has led in impacting so many ! My prayers to everyone from his family to all who he touched. Yes, his love and passion to help others lives on!
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Dianne Gilman posted a condolence
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Dear Kathy and family and friends,
Sending sincere sympathy and prayers for the loss of your loved one "Bill"
A man who touched so many lives in a very meaningful way.
May all of the cherished memories being comfort to you during this difficult time.
Dianne Gilman
IHS
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Tony Leonardis posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
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Bill "Coach" McKee was not only a teacher of inspiration, a passionate coach devoted to his players, but he was also a wonderful and compassionate man. I was fortunate enough to have Bill as my soccer coach during my senior year in high school. He was my inspiration not because of how he coached a group of high school kids, but how he taught us to be human and respect each other, regardless of our background. Throughout the years, I would occasionally bump into Bill and he would always take the time to listen and chat with me. I am so honored and grateful to have known Bill and his legacy will live on within each of us. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and I hope they can take solace in knowing that Bill "Coach" McKee had a tremendous impact on so many folks throughout the years.
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Chris posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Bill was a true friend and mentor to me. I often say that much of my success today was because of the lessons Bill taught me on and off the pitch. Always enjoyed our many conversations about soccer and life. I will miss those talks. They will always be special lasting memories in my heart. Chris Pacilio
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Janet (Austin) Vendetti posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
I knew Bill in college and he was truly “a salt of the earth” guy, very, very nice, humorous and a smile for all. It’s no surprise to read of all his accolades as a teacher, coach and family man. I’m so sorry for his family’s and friends’ loss. Heaven is a lot happier with his presence, but he will be missed.
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Judy Warren posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
I was so saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. We met as new teachers at West Irondequoit, where the group of us became fast friends and engaged in many memorable activities…. Both on and off campus! His zest for life and great smile were infectious. My husband passed last year, but I know he had great memories of Bill as a young athlete he coached and later as a teacher and friend. Anyone whom knew him is left with memories that always bring a smile.
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Connie Williams Auer posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Mac was one of my favorite people. He had a great sense of humor so when we got together we'd just laugh and laugh. Loved the man. So so sorry that he's gone. Love and hugs to his family.
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Gail Andrews lit a candle
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
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He showed us all at BK how to "Do All Things Well". He always had time to visit with me in the office & always left with a smile. Sending prayers for strength and peace.
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Patti Brazill uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
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Cheers to the best first mate.
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Donna Bergen lit a candle
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
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Eastridge Alumni has a Facebook Page that I help run. When we learn of one of graduates passing on we pay tribute to them on our page. I would like to share it with you as I offer my sincere condolences. This is what I posted today:
"Always sad to lose one of our extended Eastridge Family especially so young. Bill graduated in 1967. I didn't know him personally but knew him through my neighbor who always spoke highly of him as a coach to her children and an all around great guy.
This is Teacher Appreciation Week. Reading his obituary I thought of countless students he impacted that may never have had the chance to thank him. His thanks is expressed by the countless students who inspired by his example are living their best lives. Changing the world one student at a time indeed!
Please lift up his family and loved ones in the healing light as they mourn their profound loss. Memories more treasured bring joy. Comfort comes knowing that his life will be celebrated in the hearts of all the souls he touched on earth.
RIP "A teacher affects eternity; his can never tell where his influence stops." Henry Adams"
On behalf of Eastridge best Lancer regards,
Donna LaTour-Bergen EHS 1972
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Audrey Putnam posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
I was a student of Mr. McKee's at Irondequoit High School in the 80's. Best teacher ever - you wanted to learn from him. I became a History major in College. I was also coached by him and attended Bethany Soccer Camps. He was an incredible role model. I am very sorry for your loss. Audrey (Gerber) Putnam IHS class of '83.
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The family of William J. McKee uploaded a photo
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
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