William Kuzmiak, age 92, of Ghent, NY, born December 27, 1933, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on January 3, 2026, at Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Katherine Leigh Ward of Lebanon, TN, and Beth Lynn Walsh (David) of Walden, NY. Bill and Beth shared an especially close and loving bond, and their relationship was a source of great comfort and joy to him throughout his life. He is also survived by his beloved grandson, Connor Walsh of Walden, NY, and his brother, Nicholas of Middletown, NY. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews who cherished calling him "Uncle Billy."

Bill was an honorary "Grandpa Bill" to William and Allison Michaud, Shaun, Callie Cay (Ben), and Kylie of Texas.

He was predeceased by his parents, Stephen and Katherine Kuzmiak; his sisters, Mary, Ann, Katherine, Elizabeth, and Irene; his brother, Stephen; his son, William Michaud; his nephew, Stephen Smith; and his niece, Mary Ford.

Bill attended Hudson High School and proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956 as a Specialist Third Class. After his military service, he relocated from Columbia County to Long Island, where he worked as a barber for ten years. He later returned to Columbia County and worked as a Child Care Counselor at Berkshire Farm in Canaan, NY. Following his marriage in 1969, Bill changed careers to truck driving to support his family. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 294 for over 20½ years. Even after retirement, Bill continued driving trucks part-time for local companies, working well into his 80s.

Bill was an avid gardener, a fixer of all things, and loved spending time on his big tractor. He was always available to give a haircut and lend a helping hand. Fiercely independent until the very end, Bill had a way of leaving everyone he met with a bit more knowledge and a good story to tell.

Calling hours will be held at French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham, NY,  on Friday, January 9, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Additional calling hours will take place on Saturday, January 10, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. James Cemetery in Ghent, NY.

Bill made a lasting impact on all who knew him and will be deeply missed.