William A. Emms

William A. Emms, 66, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed from this life on March 4, 2024 at Buffalo General Medical Center.  Born on July 14, 1957 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late William and Mary (nee Ortner) Emms.

Bill was a lifelong area resident.  He graduated from Niagara Falls High school where he participated in many plays as an active member of the Drama Club.  After high school Bill pursued a career in acting and modeling locally and after in Tampa, New York City, and Los Angeles.  He later returned to Niagara Falls and attended both Niagara University, Niagara County Community College and later Buffalo State College where he earned his Bachelors Degree in Information Technology.  Bill was a longtime current employee of Seneca Niagara Casino and Resort where he worked in their IT department.

Bill loved theater, music, Classic Sci-Fi and Horror films and watching classic television, especially episodes of I Love Lucy. He also enjoyed travel including multiple Caribbean cruises, trips to Mexico, Switzerland, Las Vegas and a special trip to Paris to celebrate his 50th birthday which fell on Bastille Day.  He loved both the mountains and the water: swimming and snorkeling in the ocean, the beach, just sitting and looking out over the lake or the river and especially just hanging out with friends at the Bauer pool.  He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him as the kind, funny and gentle man that he was.  

Bill is survived by his partner of 24 years, Gary A. Volante; an aunt and uncle, Angela and John Pitonyak and a cousin, John (Shelly) Pitonyak.  Besides his parents, Bill was predeceased by sisters Mary-Lou and Kathy.

Bill's family and friends may come to gather on Saturday, March 23rd,  from 5-7 p.m. at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY (716) 297-9007, where a funeral service will begin at 6:45 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the American Kidney Fund, https://www.kidneyfund.org 

Bills Family has entrusted his care to the Goodlander family.  Share Condolences and view his tribute video at GOODLANDERCARES.COM

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