William Robert Carreo

William Robert Carreo (81), son of B. Arnold Carreo and Agnes Niedermayer Carreo, loving husband, father, and Papa – passed peacefully on February 4, 2021. He is predeceased by his beloved sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Michael Tobin. Bill is survived by his faithful wife, Carol, of 53 years; daughter Julie and her husband Adam; son Paul; and daughter Jennie, her husband Chris, and their children Matthew (11) & Patrick (7). Bill was a lifelong Rochester & Webster resident, loyal family man, activist, and humanitarian. He always brought a joyful exuberance to the room. Those who knew and loved him best would say he was sharp-witted, deliciously irreverent, intellectually gifted, and full of gentle sweetness.

Bill studied at St. Bernard’s Seminary before receiving a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Buffalo. He built his career in public service, advocating for community action & social welfare reform. He was a dedicated Monroe County community leader for 33 years, serving as Deputy Director for Social Services and as a board member for organizations like Action for a Better Community. After retirement, he continued to volunteer for many local outreach organizations. He spent his life in pursuit of justice and equality for the disenfranchised, giving a voice to the voiceless.

Bill was a champion golfer, who won countless Rochester tournaments alongside his mentor and uncle, Dean Carreo. He was a master gardener, known for his colorful and beautiful yard. Bill was a voracious reader, with a passion for works from Shakespeare to Asmiov. He was a lover of animals and nature, always at peace in the Adirondack mountains, fishing in Tampa Bay, and kayaking in Casey Park. He was a wonderful artist, who loved to draw and paint Peanuts characters. He doted on his grandsons; teaching them to garden, draw, and fish. He fostered their imaginations, giving them opportunities for adventure, and imparting the confidence to dream big. Bill felt great pride for the family he created and in his last days said his family was his greatest love and most cherished accomplishment.

May you sing with the angels, dance in a field of sunflowers, hit the longest drives, and feel the loving light of your family shining upon your face for all eternity, Papa. You are forever in our hearts. 

Please take a moment to visit our memorial site, share a story and pay tribute to William:  www.forevermissed.com/williamcarreo 

In keeping with William’s advocacy for humanity, we ask you choose a donation to either:

• Action for a Better Community – William served on the board of directors advancing their mission of eliminating poverty in local Rochester communities, promoting and providing opportunities for those in need. https://www.abcinfo.org/donate/ (please select “In memory of William Carreo”)
• Jude Children’s Research Hospital – advancing cures and means of prevention, so no child is denied treatment  https://www.stjude.org/donate/