Obituary of William J. Black

Memorial services for William and Kathleen Carey Black will be held Saturday, Nov. 19th at 11:00 am at St. Charles of Borromeo Church, 417 S. Orchard Rd. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11:00am at the church prior to the services. William J. Black passed away November 12th at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY after submitting to an extended illness while traveling. His wife, Kathleen Carey Black died Oct. 31st. William was predeceased by his stepson, Eric Bobrow and parents, Frances and Maurice W. Black. He is survived by his sister, Karen (Ronald) Green, brothers, Maurice A. (Kathleen) Black, and James B. (Deanna) Black, daughter-in-law, Jennifer Bobrow, five nieces and four nephews. Bill retired from Westhill High School after teaching vocal music there for 34 years. He was dearly loved and respected by his students whose lives he touched through the love of music. He was honored by receiving the Syracuse Symphony Award for Excellence in Teaching Music in 1999. Bill was also well known as a fine baritone, who sang many operatic roles for the Syracuse Opera Company and Oswego Opera Theater, plus many other musical performances in musical theater. Bill and his wife, Kathy, were completely dedicated to each other. Together they loved to hike and travel, visiting Ireland, Scotland, Germany and Italy. They enjoyed walking in local parks and visiting antique shops wherever they travelled. Friends and family will truly miss them. Donations in Bill's name may be made to a music organization of your choice. Donations in Kathy's name may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave. Syracuse, NY 13208.