William E. Gifford

William E. Gifford, 92, formerly of Johnstown, New York passed away peacefully on May 19th, 2015 with his wife Virginia and his family by his side. He was born in Johnstown, New York on April 8, 1923. William was a Technician Fourth Grade in the United States Army stationed in Manchester, United Kingdom during World War II. William married Virginia M. Donnelly on July 26, 1947 and celebrated life together over 67 years. They raised four sons together: William R. Gifford, Robert B. Gifford, Gerard H. Gifford, James R. Gifford and have 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his two brothers Richard Gifford and Raymond Gifford as well as his sister Anna Marie Reed. He is survived by his sister Marlene Frasier and three daughter's in law: June, Jan and Gwen Gifford. William and his twin brother Raymond founded Fulton County Glass Works in Gloversville, New York in 1946 and operated for 42 years. William and Virginia spent their retirement years in Mayfield, New York, Port Charlotte, Florida and Hendersonville, North Carolina. The last years were spent in Venice, Florida where they enjoyed golf, bowling and many nights of dancing with friends. A prayer service will take place on Friday, May 29, 2015 7 P.M. at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street Gloversville, NY. Calling hours to which relatives and friends are invited to attend will take place on Friday from 5 P.M. until time of service at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will take place at Ferndale Cemetery in Johnstown at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Shriner's Hospital for Children at www.Shrinershospitalsforchildren.org Arrangements have been entrusted to Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, Gloversville, NY. Online condolences are available at www.brbsfuneral.com