William Griessler

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ called William “Bill” Griessler home to eternal life on May 18, 2026.

Bill was born in the Bronx on Mother’s Day, May 11, 1930, to the late Frank and Elizabeth Griessler during the Great Depression. When Bill was two years old, his parents moved to a farm in Delanson, New York, so they could grow their own food.

Bill graduated from Delanson Union Free School, where he played sports and was a member of the National Honor Society. Farming was Bill’s lifelong passion, and he remained a farmer throughout his life. Later, he went to work at General Electric in the Steam Turbine Department, where he served as an Inventory Accounting Specialist for 28 years. It was there that he met the love of his life, Frances Wilk. Together, they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage.

Bill was deeply devoted to his community and was an active member of the Quaker Street Fire Company for more than 65 years, first serving as a firefighter and later as a Fire Commissioner.

In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his wife, Frances Griessler, and his children, Nancy Pannitto and David Griessler.

He is survived by his daughters, Gail Griessler, Elaine Griessler (Kyle James), and Christine Griessler (Brenda Williams). He is also survived by his grandchildren, George Pannitto (Jami), Justin Pannitto (Megan), Sara Pring (Chris), Kayla Bowersox (Jeff), Kylie James, Marisa James, and Callie Lennon; his great-grandchildren, Jacob, Julie, Logan, Caleb, Mason, and Levi; and his great-great-granddaughter, Ariya.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 28, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the White-Van Buren Funeral Home, 1779 Main Street, Delanson. A graveside memorial service will be held on Friday, May 29, at 10:00 a.m., Bill will be laid to rest at Grove Cemetery in Quaker Street.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bill’s memory to the Schoharie County Animal Shelter, 304 Howe Cave Road, Howes Cave, NY 12092, or to The Community Hospice Foundation, 310 South Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208.