Guilderland – William M. Gathen, Sr., 93, passed away peacefully at Our Lady of Life Mercy Center on Tuesday April 22, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Troy, he is the son of the late William and Irene Gathen.

William proudly served his country in the United States Navy during WWII. William was employed in the transportation field for many years and later retired from the University at Albany as a supervisor in postal services. He also served as a crossing guard at St. Thomas the Apostle for more than 20 years before retiring at the age of 89. He was a past Post Commander of the VFW Wigand Post #8444. William enjoyed watching golf, playing Bingo, travelling, and watching baseball especially his New York Mets.

In addition to his parents, William was predeceased by his wife of 56 years Frances Dashiell Gathen, in 1998. He is also predeceased by his siblings; Jerry, Beatrice, Rita, and Richard.

William is survived by his children, Colleen (Les) Bassett and William Jr. (Patricia) Gathen; his grandchildren, Jane, Michael, Kari, Debra (Michael), William (Kathleen), Mark, Brian (Farrier), and Michael (Claudia); his great-grandchildren, Cassandra, John, Amanda, Christopher, Kate, Jack, Adam, and George; and his great-great grandchildren, Jocelyn and Skylar.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for William on Monday April 28th at 9:30 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Delmar. Calling hours will be Sunday April 27th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Entombment will be at Graceland Cemetery, Albany. To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewcomerAlbany.com