William "Bill" Nawrot
November 1, 1942 - October 13, 2026
William "Bill" Nawrot, 83, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026, following a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. Throughout his 25-year fight, Bill demonstrated remarkable determination, strength, and an unwavering will to keep going. His life was defined by hard work, generosity, resilience, and, above all, the deep and abiding love he had for his family.
Bill was born on November 1, 1942, in Buffalo, New York, to the late Walter and Sophia Nawrot. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Navy before beginning a career with General Motors in Buffalo. Bill was a hardworking man who took pride in everything he did and was always willing to give generously to those around him.
One of the greatest blessings of Bill's life was meeting and marrying his beloved wife, Charlene Henretta. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, treasured memories, and a family that would become Bill's greatest accomplishment. After years of hard work, Bill and Charlene retired to Ponte Vedra, Florida, where they enjoyed traveling, spending time together, and embracing the next chapter of their lives.
Bill enjoyed golfing, playing poker, and traveling, but nothing brought him greater happiness than his family. His greatest pride was the life he and Charlene created together, their two children, and their four beautiful grandchildren. Watching his family grow and seeing the people his children and grandchildren were becoming brought him immeasurable joy. The love he had for them was evident in the life he lived, the sacrifices he made, and the memories he leaves behind.
Those who knew Bill knew him as a hardworking, generous, and determined man. He faced life's challenges with strength and perseverance, including a cancer battle that spanned more than two decades. His determination to keep fighting was a testament to his spirit and his love for life and the people who made it so meaningful.
Bill lived a full and wonderful 83 years. He worked hard, loved deeply, traveled, made lasting memories, and had the privilege of watching the beautiful family he and Charlene created continue to grow. While his passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who love him, his legacy will live on through the values he instilled, the love he shared, and the family that will forever carry a part of him.
Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Charlene Nawrot; his son, Jason Nawrot, and daughter-in-law, Renee Nawrot; his daughter, Jennifer Maloney, and son-in-law, Patrick Maloney; and his four beloved grandchildren, Sarah and Emily Maloney, and Benjamin and Ethan Nawrot. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Sophia Nawrot.
Though his family must now learn to navigate life without his physical presence, the love Bill gave so freely will never leave them. His life was a gift, his love was a blessing, and the legacy he leaves behind is one that will continue for generations. He will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a man whose greatest achievement was the family he loved so dearly.
After a lifetime of love, strength, and perseverance, Bill's long fight is over, and he is now resting in the arms of Jesus. May he find eternal peace, reunited with the Lord, while his family finds comfort in the beautiful life he lived and the love that will never fade.
A Celebration of Life
A chapel service honoring Bill's life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at:
Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral Home
4750 Palm Valley Road
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bill's life, share memories, and honor the lasting legacy of a man who meant so much to so many.
