Obituary of William J. Bullwinkel, Jr.

William "Bill" J. Bullwinkel, Jr. passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side on Sunday, April 4, 2021 after a courageous 18 year battle with cancer. He had shared 79 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and amazing memories with family and friends.

Born in Brooklyn to the late William, Sr. and Ethel Bullwinkel, Bill was one of two children to bless their household. At age 2, the Bullwinkel family relocated to an area of Denville by the Rockaway river which allowed for many memorable afternoons in nature hunting and fishing. After graduating from Morristown Prep School, now Morristown-Beard School, Class of 1960, he attended Layfayette College before proudly serving our country in the United States Army National Guard in the Vietnam Era. He married his best friend and soulmate, Barbara (Fox), on July 24, 1987. Bill owned and operated Denville Liquors for over 50 years before retiring.

Bill was a very logical and practical person; he could always see through any issue in order to get straight to the solution. A realist with street smarts, common sense, and an education, Bill was a force to be reckoned with. He had a heart of gold and always made us laugh with his corny jokes, that we will pass on for generations to come. He was a dedicated member of the Rockaway River Country Club and the Breakfast Club at Smartworld in Denville; Bill loved his coffee in the morning and especially enjoyed the company. He also loved golfing, skiing, and traveling. Bill and his family enjoyed many trips to Vermont, where they purchased a home. Above anything else, he enjoyed spending time with his family. They were his pride and joy. Although we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in knowing he is shining down looking out for us, out of pain, and able to swing that golf club, drink his Cutty Shark, and ski down the biggest slopes.

He leaves priceless everlasting memories to his beloved wife of 33 years, Barbara Fox McConnell Bullwinkel; his loving step-children, Kelly Platek and her husband Daniel Platek, Sr. and Daniel McConnell; his cherished grandchildren, Madisen McConnell, Daniel Platek, Jr., and McConnell Fox Platek; his treasured niece, Alexandra Green; his caring cousins, Joyce Edcumbe and Marilyn Grant; and many brothers and sisters-in-law, extended family, and dear friends. He joins his parents, and sister and brother-in-law, Brenda and Max Green in Heaven.

All services will be private. Bill will be laid to rest with his parents in Denville Cemetery. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Bill here to continue to celebrate the incredible life he endowed to us.