Obituary of William T. DeGraff

East Greenbush William T. DeGraff 76, passed into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at St. Peter's Hospital. William was born in Troy, the proud son of the late William A. and Ann O'Connell DeGraff. He graduated from Troy High School, where he played baseball. He began his long career at Sterling Drug (AMRI now) and became Supervisor of Chemical Manufacturing. He retired after 35 years of service. During his tenure with Sterling Drug, he was part of the Fire and Rescue Squad at the plant, going through many hours of training to help maintain safety for the employees. He also started the Dr. Duck Annual Golf Tournament for his co-workers and their families. Predeceased by his son-in-law, Robin R. Stacey, he is survived by his loving wife of nearly 55 years, Joanne Percendes DeGraff, his daughter Kathleen A. Stacey, and his son William J. DeGraff, Sr. Proud Poppy to Sarah and Sean Stacey, Christopher, William J. DeGraff Jr., Meghan (Josh) DeGraff-Morrow, and Michelle DeGraff. Great-grandfather of Cason Michael Morrow. Bill is also survived by his brother Douglas DeGraff (Rita Schad), sisters-in-law Bonni Garvey, Cleo Whitney, and Maggie Clairmont (Leon), several cousins, and many nieces and nephews. Bill was very athletic, baseball being his favorite sport. He volunteered many hours coaching for the East Greenbush Little League and Babe Ruth teams. He served on the board of directors, and also co-founded the East Greenbush Senior Babe Ruth League. He is still affectionately remembered as Coach to many of his former players. Bill was an avid fan of the NY Yankees and NY Giants Football teams. Each brought their share of joy and frustration from year to year. The family wishes to thank the staff of NYOH at Patroon Creek, especially the nurse-angels in the infusion unit. Also, a thank you for the kind care from the staff on the 5th floor Brady Farrell respiratory unit at St. Peter's Hospital. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral on Saturday morning at 9 o'clock at the Rockefeller Funeral Home, and 9:30 at The Church of St. Mary, 163 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer, NY where a mass of Christian death and burial will be celebrated. Family and friends are also invited to visit with his family on Friday between 4 and 7pm at the funeral home. Entombment will be in the Albany Rural Cemetery Menands, NY. Light a condolence candle at www.wjrockefeller.com