Obituary of William J. Ryll

Age 89, died peacefully at the Chemung County Nursing Facility on Tuesday, October 6, 2015. Bill was born in Elmira NY, a son of Bernard F. and Mary (Grabowski) Ryll. He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 55 years, Peggy (Wierda) Ryll. Bill is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Christine M. and Earl Sowell of Horseheads; son William T. Ryll of Virginia; granddaughter Elizabeth (Joseph) Reed of Horseheads; greatgrandchildren, Landon, Kailyn and Jeremiah Reed; brother Bernard Ryll of Elmira; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Sylvia Ripley, Edward Wierda, James (Sue) Wierda, Christopher (Jeanne) Wierda, John (Marlene) Wierda and Mary Wierda; numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was a U. S. Navy veteran serving during the Korean War. His working career began while still in high school managing Ryll's Pharmacy with his brother Bud in the 1940's. After his military service Bill worked at the bus terminal for his in-laws. The next 40 years he worked alongside his wife Peggy and his brother Bernard at the Dairy Queen on Lake Street and then Bookmarks on N. Main Street. Upon retirement he stayed active working at Savino's Liquor Store. Bill was a member of the Elmira Elks Lodge and the Elmira Heights American Legion. He was an avid fisherman and reader, accomplished bowler and enjoyed golf immensely. Bill cherished family trips and the time he spent with his granddaughter and great grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Patrick's Church, Elmira on Friday, October 16, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. Committal prayers and military honors will follow at Woodlawn National Cemetery. The Ryll family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the 5th floor staff at the Chemung County Nursing Facility for the patience and care provided to Bill over the last 4 years. Donations in Bill's memory may be directed to the ARC of Chemung Recreation Fund, 711 Sullivan St., Elmira NY 14901 or Steele Memorial Library, 101 E. Church St., Elmira NY 14901.