In memory of two Rotarians and community giants

This is the week that rocked Middletown Rotary.  We lost two past presidents and longtime members in just two days.  Horrific and so incredibly sad.

Bill Myers joined Rotary in 1973 and served as President during the 2001-2002 Rotary year.  He held other positions as well.  I remember visiting the Club in the late 1980's and I'm certain that Bill was the Treasurer.  I think he most enjoyed telling jokes,  making us laugh as guest sergeant-at-arms and encouraging us to reach in our pockets for fines and happy dollars.  Bill made many contributions to the banking industry, notably as President of Middletown Savings Bank and founder of the Community Bank of Orange.  Bill served the Middletown Day Nursery for more than 20 years, the Salvation Army Advisory Board for 30+ years and the United Way.  He was a critical player in the merger of the two chambers to our current Orange County Chamber of Commerce.  When I was President of the SUNY Orange Alumni Association, we honored Bill as Distinguished Alumn.  I recall how long his resume was even then.  Bill was a willing participant in the organizations he supported.  He was not there in name only; he got things done.  In recent years Bill's pride was his grandson, Mikey.  We extend our sincerest sympathies to Mikey; Bill's wife, Pam; and children, Brian and Erin.

Bill Devitt was a quiet giant, a man of great character.  He became a Rotarian in 1984 and was our Club President in 2000-2001.  He was a financial advisor for more than 40 years, most recently for Merrill Lynch and Advest.  He also was a pillar of the community, particularly in the Montgomery area serving as Mayor, school board member and member of the Montgomery Fire Dept.  We knew him best for his 25 years of dedication to Inspire's Foundation.  He continually reminded us of the wonderful work they were doing to make life better for so many Orange County families.  I am thankful that Bill and Mary were able to attend our Installation Dinner in June.  Even though Bill was struggling with his pulmonary disease, he insisted on attending our event, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to speak with him one last time.  Our thoughts and prayers go to the entire Devitt family.

To Bill and Bill:  Thank you for your contributions to our community and especially to Rotary.  You definitely exemplified our motto, Service Above Self.   We will miss you but will strive to meet the standard you have set for us as Rotarians.  Rest in peace, dear friends.