Text Box: William John Kempkes, President & CEO

Text Box: William Kempkes, a life long resident of Yonkers, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2011 at the age 74. Born to Paul & Inge Kempkes, May 19, 1937. He was a graduate of Gorton High School. After finishing high school, William joined and served in the United Stated Air Force. After leaving the Air Force, William joined the family business, which his father stated back in 1927, along side his father. During his time working, one of his many pride and joys was painting and restoring churches throughout New York State. William was a loving and devoted Husband, father and grandfather.

Text Box: He was a member of Yonkers Jay-Cee's and was JCI Senator, He was also a past President of Yonkers Kiwanis Club. William volunteered 20 years to the American Red Cross and during that time became Chairman of the Board of the Yonkers Chapter. He also volunteered his time for Salvation Army, Bill was Co-Chairman for Senior Citizens boat ride. One of his greatest joys was at Christmas time playing Santa Claus for the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Yonkers Jay-Cee's, Yonkers Kiwanis Club, Senior Citizen Christmas dinner, and Fernc1iffManor. He was also involved with the March of Dimes, Yonkers Marathon. William was also a member of United States Volunteer Life Saving Corp.

Text Box: Amongst one of his many contributions to the city of Yonkers was painting the roof of the Yonkers City Pier, which has become a symbol of the City.

Text Box: Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Mary Lou, His children, Mary Ann Sutherland, Cindy Lou Kempkes, William Jr. & his wife Erica, Thomas & his wife Melissa. His grandchildren: Stephen & Kenneth Sutherland, William III, Pierce, Julia and Samantha. His brothers, Paul & Herbert Kempkes and His sisters Ann Wyman & Linda Legg.

Text Box: Bill was predeceased by his Father Paul Kempkes, His Mother Inge Kempkes, & Brother-in-law George Legg.

Text Box: The Family wishes to thank: Dr. Rosen, Dr. Schoen, Dr. Feldman, St. John's Hospital, Calvary Hospital, and the Cancer Support Team and their Staffs for their wonderful care, kindness and support.

Text Box: There will be a memorial service at Whalen & Ball Funeral home on Sunday June 12, 2011

Text Box: In lieu of flowers please send donation to Cancer Support Team 875 Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 204, Mamaroneck, NY 10543 or your favorite Charity.

With Great Sadness, We Announce The Passing of William Kempkes

“The Doctor of Painting”

President and CEO of Paul Kempkes Inc. Painting Contractors

 

He did so much for the people of the city he loved (Yonkers) without fanfare.

He did it because someone had to.

 

Webmaster notes

 

Bill Kempkes (along with his wife and family), working with the Red Cross and/or the Salvation Army at many disasters through out Westchester County. Helping people find a place to stay after a fire or bringing coffee to the firemen on a cold January night was all just part of  being Bill.

 

Painting Churches was his passion. His fondest memories were about all the Churches he painted in Manhattan. Each Church had its own memories. He always felt he became part of that

“Church Family”

 

Painting the roof of the Yonkers City pier was one of his proudest achievements.

He hated to see the old pier rusting away.

It took three years to get the right permission from the city

and a donation of paint from  Sherwin-Williams but he did it

with his Son and Mary Terry (a long time co-worker and family friend).

This caught someone's attention and now it is one of the symbols of Yonkers.

“All it took was a coat of paint.”

 

If you live in Yonkers, Bill Kempkes has touched the life of you or someone you know.

He will be greatly missed.