William Bluff

William Michael Bluff, 89, of Honesdale, died on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at Bethany Village where he resided. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Vincentia R. Marcinkus, who died on June 6, 1994. Born on March 25, 1925 in Cass Township of Schuylkill County, he was the son of the late Michael and Ellie McAlarney Bluff. After graduating high school Bill enlisted in the US Marine Corp. He served in the Central Pacific participating in the Okinawa Campaign during World War II. Later Bill joined the Pennsylvania State Police serving the Commonwealth for 32 years and attaining the rank of sergeant. In 1980 Bill was elected Wayne County Sheriff where he served for 20 years before his retirement. An active member of the community, Bill helped develop the former “Hornet’s Hive” and coached youth basketball and baseball. He was a member of the Honesdale Lions Club, a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a past Grand Knight. He was also a member and past Commandent of the Marine Corps League and a former driver for Meals on Wheels. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Honesdale where he was the first chairman of its Parish Block Party. Surviving is his son Robert Bluff and wife Donna of Bethany; his daughter Barbara Lubinski and husband Robert of Waymart; grandchildren Krissy Dougherty and husband Robert, James Bluff and wife Sarah, Katie Bluff, Lauren Ricci and husband Gerry and Christopher Lubinski; great grandchildren Brendan and Luke Dougherty. He was preceded in death by his brother John Bluff and a sister Catherine Bluff. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Dec. 27th at St. Mary Magdalen Church, Honesdale at 10 am. Interment with Military Honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. As per his request, there will be no public visitation. Arrangements by Hessling Funeral Home, Inc., 428 Main St. Honesdale. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Wayne Pike Marine Corp League, 58 Rosencranse Rd. Honesdale, PA 18431 or to Bethany Village Memorial Fund, 150 Noble Ln. Honesdale, PA 18431.