William M. Caruso

If a man can bridge the gap between life and death, if he can live on after he’s dead, then maybe he was a great man.  ~James Dean

William (Billy) Caruso, born December 20, 1958, of Poughquag, NY sadly passed on June 19, 2019 in Valhalla, NY at the age of 60.  He spent the last week of his life surrounded by family and friends.  The week before his death was a true testament to the life he lived.  It was filled with those who loved him - those who knew him from childhood, those who’ve known him only a few years.  His past, his present, all in one place, to rally for a man who’d had a profound impact on their lives.  Billy’s life was one void of regret, and full of laughter.  Those last few days, while filled with sadness, contained moments of love and hope, of laughter and levity, just as he would have wanted.

As a husband, he shared his vulnerability - his hopes and dreams and desires for the future.  He was supportive, loving, protective, caring, patient.  He provided balance and perspective, and brought joy to even the toughest moments.  

As a father, he taught his children to take chances - to love, to hope, to work hard, and to live life to the fullest.  Billy didn’t take life too seriously, a gentle reminder that his kids shouldn’t either. He taught them to love music and to treat music as a soundtrack to their every day (and play it loud and proud).  For them, his memory lives in music, especially in that of Pink Floyd, Guns N’ Roses and Def Leppard.   In addition, he brought joy and love to his step children, filling a void in their lives and becoming a father to them as well.  They revere and honor his life. The sparkle in Billy’s eyes is an inspiration to all the children he leaves behind.

Billy’s greatest joy was being a loving “Pop Pop” to his 8 grandkids. He made them all giggle, got down on the floor and played, loved to throw them in the air.  His infectious laugh and spirit will shine through in them for years to come.  He was a man who honored family in all forms - and took pride in going the extra mile as a husband, brother, son, father,  and grandfather.

As a friend and family member, he was loyal and willing to lend a hand.  From those he knew in childhood to those he met recently, he left a memorable impression.  His laugh was infectious and distinct.  Others couldn’t help but laugh with him.  He was sometimes wild, and always charming and charismatic.  He was young at heart, vibrant, and ready for adventure at any time.

As a worker and a business owner, he was vigilant - hard work didn’t scare him.  He had a long career in construction, and recently opened an Italian restaurant with his wife.  Billy took great pride in his new beginning and loved nothing more than making pizzas behind the counter and socializing with customers.  He wasn’t without vanity - he was a handsome man and took pride in his looks.  But his best days, the ones that he’ll be most remembered for, were when he was just home from work, tired, dirty, and still smiling.

Billy took on the world with reckless abandon.  He liked to drive fast, play hard, and laugh loudly.  But when it came down to it, the things that mattered most to him were family and friendship.  He often said that’s what life was all about.  He leaves a trail of memories, and echoes of laughter. 

He is survived by his wife, Ursula Destefano Caruso, his children Kristy (Jon), Billy, Steven (Kristy), and Anthony Caruso, Gina and Jennifer Vitiello, and Reno Correnti. Billy will be sadly missed by his loving grandchildren, Frankie, Millie, Wynnie, Luca, Nicholas, Angelina, Luca, and Gianna, as well as his father, brothers and sister, ex-wife, in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Billy will live on in our memories, always.  A great man, indeed.

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