William F. Sherman died Tuesday August 14th, after a long illness. Bill was born in Uvalde Texas to Antonia (nee Mancha) Sherman and Frederick (Fred) Sherman of Rochester NY. He was inducted into the U.S. Navy, stationed at Miramar Naval Base in San Diego and underwent training at China Lake and Lakehurst NJ before being deployed to Southeast Asia. He received an Honorable Discharge after serving in Viet Nam and was active with the VFW, in Rochester, as a Post Commander (Dick Schied # 6661) and Veterans of Lansingburgh NY.

As a young man he worked in his father’s contracting business as a painter/carpenter on residential and commercial jobs that included set-building for several Rochester television productions. For many years, Bill utilized his knowledge and skills in the field of Emergency Management, beginning as a FEMA Public Assistance Inspector, estimating damage to infrastructure caused by natural or man-made incidents. He then transitioned to the Tribal Liaison Cadre, coordinating disaster assistance with many Indian Nations. He was a lifelong student of Native American history and took much pride in his heritage; he was dubbed “Tonto” by his longtime friends. Bill’s one true love was Nature, becoming expert on flora and fauna but reserved a special place in his heart for animals of every stripe.

He was predeceased by his parents, a sister Juanita Brown, and nieces Betsy Ross and Erika Brown. Bill is survived by his son William Sherman of Rochester, NY (Cindy) and daughters Danielle Sherman (Anthony) of Boulevard, CA and Mancha Sherman of MA, five grandchildren (Anthony, Olivia, Lio, Aztleka and Ashley), three great grandchildren (Leeah, Adelina and Gabriella) and two grandnephews (Rick and David).

Calling hours Friday August 24th at the Philip J. Brendese Funeral Home 133 Broad St. in Waterford, NY from 9-11am, after which friends and family are invited to share their memories.

Interment directly following at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mohawk Hudson River Humane Society.