So, you never knew what his selections would be on any given day a pop tune, followed by a jazz number, a Broadway show tune, a Christmas carol or a hymn.

Not being able to read music anymore, Bill still practiced trombone or euphonium an hour every day but had to play from memory. When macular degeneration stopped him from reading, he switched to audio books and started one right after the other. Of course, one stop had to be Heidelberg to show Diane the town he had come to know and love during his stint in the Army.īesides traveling, Bill was a voracious reader, especially of the Civil War and World War II. In 1970 Bill received his Doctorate in Music Education from the University of Michigan.Īfter retirement he and Diane started traveling, first throughout the United States and Canada, then exploring Europe over a dozen times. He was band director, low brass professor (trombone and euphonium), music appreciation professor, conducting teacher, supervisor of student teachers and the head of recruitment for the Music Department during his 32 years at William Paterson. In 1966 Bill came to New Jersey after being hired by William Paterson College to teach in its fledgling Music program.

He earned a master’s degree in Music from the University of Kentucky in 1960. Being overseas and living in Germany was a wonderful experience playing trombone for many Army functions and socializing with fellow German musicians was a major highlight of his life.īack in the states Bill started his teaching career as a middle and high school band director for several years and then returned to school to further his musical studies. Army Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany. Bill graduated in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education and once again finished first in his class, graduating summa cum laude.Īfter working for a year, he enlisted in the Army for three years and was stationed at the U.S. He worked his way through high school plus earned a scholarship to be able to attend Eastern Michigan University as a music major following in his sister Jean’s footsteps. Bill leaves behind his cherished wife of 46 years, Diane his beloved three children, Chris, Jeff and Amy his caring son-in-law, Sam Starnes and his cherished granddaughter, Summer.īill was born at the end of the Great Depression in Muir, Michigan and graduated from Lyons Township High School first in his class as valedictorian. He was a warm and loving man who cared deeply for his family. Bill Woodworth passed away peacefully on February 16, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Lyons township high school obituary