William Riddell Died: A Gowanda Leader and Humanitarian, Passes Away at 72
William Riddell, a longtime resident of Gowanda, New York, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2024, at the age of 72. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Riddell, his three children, John, Lisa, and Mark, his seven grandchildren, and his two sisters, Jane and Susan.
A Life of Service and Compassion
William Riddell was born on June 15, 1951, in Buffalo, New York, to Robert and Helen Riddell. He grew up in a loving family and attended St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, where he excelled in academics and sports. He graduated in 1969 and enrolled in the University of Buffalo, where he majored in political science and minored in history.
He had a passion for public service and joined the Peace Corps after graduating from college in 1973. He spent two years in Kenya, where he taught English and math to rural children and helped with community development projects. He returned to the U.S. in 1975 and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Smith, whom he had met at a church youth group.
William continued his education and earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University at Albany in 1977. He then began his career as a civil servant, working for various state and local agencies in New York. He moved to Gowanda in 1982 and became the town supervisor in 1986. He held that position for 12 years, during which he oversaw many improvements and initiatives for the town, such as expanding the library, upgrading the water system, and promoting tourism and business.
He was well-respected and admired by his colleagues and constituents for his honesty, integrity, and dedication. He was also known for his kindness and generosity, as he often volunteered for various causes and organizations, such as the Rotary Club, the Lions Club, the Red Cross, and the Salvation Army. He was a devout Catholic and a member of the St. Joseph’s Church, where he served as a lector, a catechist, and a choir member.
Riddell retired from public service in 1998 and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved traveling, gardening, reading, and playing golf. He was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres. He also had a keen interest in history and politics and was always eager to learn new things and share his opinions.
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William Riddell – A Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather
William was a devoted husband to his wife, Mary, whom he cherished and supported throughout their marriage. He was a loving father to his three children, John, Lisa, and Mark, whom he raised with care and guidance. He was a proud grandfather to his seven grandchildren, whom he adored and spoiled with gifts and attention.
William Riddell was a fun and friendly person who had a great sense of humor and a warm smile. He was always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or tell a story. He was a loyal and trustworthy friend who had many lifelong friendships. He was a role model and an inspiration to many people who knew him and loved him.
A Celebration of His Life
William Riddell’s family and friends will celebrate his life and honor his memory at a funeral mass on January 18, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the St. Joseph’s Church in Gowanda. The burial will follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Gowanda. The family will receive condolences at the Mentley Funeral Home in Gowanda on January 17, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Gowanda Library, the Gowanda Rotary Club, or the Peace Corps in Riddell’s name.
William will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and community. He will be remembered for his service, compassion, and love. He will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. Rest in peace, William Riddell.
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